Question

(b) Examine the causes and events of Civil Disobedience Movement.

Hint:

Highlight symbolic events like the Dandi March and their impact on mass mobilization and global attention.

Answer 1

The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–1934) was a crucial phase in India’s struggle for independence, marked by mass participation and significant events. 
Causes: Simon Commission (1927): The exclusion of Indians in the Simon Commission fueled resentment and protests. 
Demand for Purna Swaraj: The Lahore Congress of 1929 declared complete independence as its goal, intensifying nationalist sentiments. 
Salt Tax: The oppressive salt tax became a symbol of British exploitation, impacting every Indian. 
Key Events: Dandi March (1930): Mahatma Gandhi’s 240-mile march to Dandi to produce salt defied British laws and inspired similar protests nationwide. 
Boycotts and Non-Payment of Taxes: Indians boycotted British goods, schools, and legislatures, while refusing to pay taxes. 
Participation of Women: Women like Sarojini Naidu and Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay played active roles, increasing female participation in the freedom struggle. 
Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931): This pact temporarily suspended the movement, with the British agreeing to release political prisoners and allow peaceful protests. 
Repression by the British: Despite peaceful protests, the British responded with arrests and violence, with leaders like Gandhi and Nehru imprisoned. 
Impact: Mass Mobilization: The movement united Indians across caste, religion, and gender, strengthening the nationalist movement. 
Global Attention: The Civil Disobedience Movement drew international attention to India’s struggle for independence. 
Foundation for Future Movements: It set the stage for subsequent campaigns like the Quit India Movement of 1942. The Civil Disobedience Movement demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance and became a significant milestone in India’s journey toward independence.