Question

Attempt a narrative account of how Tilak and Annie Besant by launching the Home Rule Movement sustained the Indian freedom struggle after 1916?

Answer 1

The Indian National Movement was revived and also radicalised during the Home Rule Movement (1916- 1918), led by Lokamanya Tilak and Annie Besant.

1. It emerged as a mass movement against the British betrayal of the Indian cause of self Government after the I World War in return for the support rendered.
2. Tilak first set up the Home Rule League in April 1916.
3. In September 1916 Annie Besant by the demand of her followers started the Home Rule Movement in Madras (Adyar) without the support of the congress.
4. Both the leagues worked independently.
5. They succeeded in enrolling young people in large numbers and extending the movement to the areas,
6. The Home Rule League was utilised to carry propaganda through the press, speeches, public meetings, lectures, discussions, and touring in favour of self Government.
7. Both declared their strong view of self Government as right based on the national principle of self-determination.
8. The Home Rule Movement led to the reunion of moderate and the extremist leaders of Congress at the Lucknow session.
9. Opened the fresh talks with the leaders of the Muslim League and decided to work together for self Government.
10. The demand for Swaraj was raised by Tilak and Annie Besant gained popularity.
11. This stronghold of both the leaders made the British parliament to announce Montagu – Chelmsford reforms which promised gradual progress of India towards self Government.