History | Class 10 | Chapter: Rise of Gandhi and the Freedom Movement of India

History | Class 10 | Chapter: Rise of Gandhi and the Freedom Movement of India | Question Bank Solutions SEBA.

Chapter – 2

Rise of Gandhi and the Freedom Movement of India
HSLC Exam Questions

A. MCQ & Very Short Questions: Mark: 1

1. The Indian National Army was formed in – [HSLC '13]
(a) Germany
(b) Singapore
(c) Japan
(d) India
Answer: (b) Singapore

2. The British Prime Minister who announced the Communal Award in 1932 was – [HSLC '19]
(i) Clement Attlee
(ii) Winston Churchill
(iii) Ramsay MacDonald
(iv) Theresa May
Answer: (iii) Ramsay MacDonald

3. When did the Chauri-Chaura violence take place? [HSLC '20]
(i) 5th February, 1922
(ii) 31st January, 1930
(iii) 8th August, 1942
(iv) 6th April, 1919
Answer: (i) 5th February, 1922

4. When did the British Parliament pass the Indian Independence Act? [HSLC '22]
(i) February, 1947
(ii) June, 1947
(iii) July, 1947
(iv) March, 1947
Answer: (iii) July, 1947

5. When was the 'Cabinet Mission' sent to India by the British Government? [HSLC '22]
(i) August, 1935
(ii) July, 1945
(iii) March, 1946
(iv) August, 1947
Answer: (iii) March, 1946

6. The Rowlatt Act was passed in the year: [HSLC '23]
(i) 1916
(ii) 1917
(iii) 1918
(iv) 1919
Answer: (iv) 1919

7. The demand of complete independence was raised in the ____ session of the Congress. [HSLC '23]
(Karachi / Madras / Calcutta / Lahore)
Answer: Lahore

8. In which country did Gandhi first apply the technique of 'Satyagraha'? [HSLC '24]
(a) India
(b) South Africa
(c) England
(d) Egypt
Answer: (b) South Africa

9. "Give me blood and I shall give you freedom." This famous quote is attributed to which famous Indian leader? [HSLC '24]
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(c) Dadabhai Naoroji
(d) Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
Answer: (d) Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

10. On which date was the 'Direct Action Day' observed? [HSLC '24]
(a) 16th August, 1946
(b) 16th October, 1946
(c) 16th July, 1946
(d) 20th February, 1947
Answer: (a) 16th August, 1946

11. Consider the following statements about the Non-Cooperation Movement. Which of the following options are correct about the Movement? [HSLC '25]

(i) Salt laws were challenged.
(ii) Students left government school.
(iii) Unity among Hindus and Muslims.
(iv) Women did not participate.

Options:
(a) (i) and (iv)
(b) (ii) and (iii)
(c) (i) and (ii)
(d) (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Answer: (b) (ii) and (iii)

12. Which of the following were the provisions of the Indian Independence Act, 1947? [HSLC '25]

(i) India and Pakistan were to become independent on August 15, 1947.
(ii) Each dominion was to have a Prime Minister appointed by the king.
(iii) Two dominions of India and Pakistan were to be established, and their Constituent Assemblies were to decide whether to remain within the British Commonwealth of Nations or not.
(iv) The Legislatures of both the dominions were restricted to making laws only under the supervision of the British Parliament.

Options:
(a) (i) and (ii)
(b) (i) and (iii)
(c) (i) and (iv)
(d) (ii) and (iv)
Answer: (b) (i) and (iii)

8. Arrange the following historical events following the sequence they occurred — from old to new: [HSLC '25]

(i) August Revolution
(ii) Direct Action Day
(iii) Simon Commission
(iv) Demand for Complete Independence

Options:
(a) (i) → (ii) → (iii) → (iv)
(b) (iii) → (iv) → (ii) → (i)
(c) (i) → (ii) → (iv) → (iii)
(d) (iii) → (iv) → (i) → (ii)

Answer: (d) (iii) → (iv) → (i) → (ii)
Explanation:

Simon Commission — 1928
Demand for Complete Independence — 1929 (Lahore Session)
August Revolution (Quit India Movement) — 1942
Direct Action Day — 1946

9. What was "Gandhi-Irwin Pact"? [HSLC '11]
Answer:
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was an agreement signed in March 1931 between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India. It marked the end of the Civil Disobedience Movement's first phase.

10. What was the main objective of the "Gandhi-Irwin Pact"? [HSLC '13]
Answer:
The main objective was to bring about a compromise between the Congress and the British Government. The pact allowed:

The release of political prisoners.
The peaceful withdrawal of the Civil Disobedience Movement.

11. What was the major aim and objective of "Azad Hind Fouz"? [HSLC '15]
Answer:
The main aim of the Azad Hind Fouz (INA), formed by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, was to free India from British rule through armed struggle.

12. The Civil Disobedience Movement. [HSLC '18]
Answer:
The Civil Disobedience Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 by breaking the Salt Laws. It aimed at:

Defying unjust British laws.
Achieving Swaraj (self-rule) through non-violent resistance.

13. Name the Congress representative who participated in the Second Round Table Conference of 1931. [HSLC '23]
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi

B. Short Type Questions (Mark: 2/3)

1. When and in which session of the Indian National Congress was Purna Swaraj declared to be the chief goal of the Indians? [HSLC '17]
Answer:

The demand for Purna Swaraj (complete independence) was declared at the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress in December 1929.
26th January 1930 was observed as the first Independence Day.

2. Mention any two conditions of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed in 1931. [HSLC '15, '18]
Answer:
Two main conditions of the pact were:

The British Government agreed to release political prisoners except those involved in violence.
Congress agreed to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement and participate in the Second Round Table Conference.

3. When did Gandhiji start his Salt March from Sabarmati Ashram to the seacoast of Dandi?
What is the distance between Sabarmati Ashram and the seacoast of Dandi? [HSLC '19]
Answer:

Gandhiji started the Salt March on 12th March 1930.
The distance between Sabarmati Ashram and Dandi is about 385 km.

4. When was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed? Mention one outcome of the agreement. [HSLC '20]
Answer:

The pact was signed in March 1931.
Outcome: Congress agreed to attend the Second Round Table Conference in London.

5. Who for the first time used the term "Satyagraha"? What is its actual meaning? [HSLC '22]
Answer:

The term Satyagraha was first used by Mahatma Gandhi during his struggle in South Africa in 1906.
It means "insistence on truth" or "holding on to truth" through non-violent resistance.

6. When did the Civil Disobedience Movement take place in India? How was it conducted by Mahatma Gandhi? [HSLC '22]
Answer:

It began in 1930 with Gandhiji's Dandi March against the Salt Laws.
People boycotted British goods, refused to pay taxes, and peacefully violated unjust laws.

7. When was the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre taken place? Briefly describe the incident. [HSLC '22]
Answer:

The massacre occurred on 13th April 1919 at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar.
British troops under General Dyer fired indiscriminately on a peaceful gathering, killing hundreds of unarmed civilians.
This incident shocked the nation and intensified the freedom struggle.

8. Evaluate the role of General Dyer in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre and the subsequent reactions to his actions. [HSLC '25]
Answer:

Role of General Dyer:
General Dyer ordered his troops to fire on a peaceful crowd at Jallianwala Bagh without any warning, causing massive casualties.
Reactions:
- The massacre drew widespread condemnation across India and Britain.
- Rabindranath Tagore renounced his knighthood.
- The incident exposed the brutality of British rule and further strengthened the demand for complete independence.

Essay-type question HSLC exam.

1. Discuss the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle of India.

Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, played the most significant role in India’s struggle for independence. His philosophy of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa) transformed the freedom movement into a mass struggle.

Main Points

Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Gandhi’s first successful movement in India, where he fought for indigo farmers’ rights.
Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Led peasants to resist paying taxes due to crop failure.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): Called upon Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and laws.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Launched after the famous Dandi March against the salt tax.
Quit India Movement (1942): Demanded immediate British withdrawal with the slogan “Do or Die.”
Focused on Hindu-Muslim unity and removal of untouchability.

Conclusion

Through peaceful protests and mass participation, Gandhi united millions and made the freedom struggle a people’s movement, paving the way for independence in 1947.

2. Give an account of the Non-Cooperation Movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggle.

Answer:

The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) was one of Gandhi’s earliest nationwide campaigns against British rule.

Causes

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919).
Oppression under the Rowlatt Act.
The Khilafat Movement supporting Muslims.
High taxation and economic exploitation.

Programmes

Boycott of government schools, courts, and councils.
Boycott of British titles and honours.
Boycott of foreign goods.
Promotion of khadi and swadeshi products.
Peaceful protests and non-violent resistance.

Suspension of the Movement

Suspended after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922) where protesters set a police station on fire, killing 22 policemen.

Conclusion

Though withdrawn, the movement awakened national consciousness and prepared India for bigger struggles ahead.

3. Discuss the contribution of the Indian National Army (INA) to India’s freedom struggle.

Answer:

The Indian National Army (INA), founded by Rash Behari Bose and later led by Subhas Chandra Bose, played a vital role in igniting the spirit of nationalism.

Main Contributions

Formed in Singapore (1942) from Indian POWs.
Bose’s slogan: “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!”
INA fought alongside Japan against British forces in Burma and Northeast India.
Its heroic efforts inspired Indians and weakened British morale.
The INA Trials (1945-46) sparked nationwide protests and sympathy for the soldiers.

Conclusion

Although militarily unsuccessful, the INA significantly strengthened India’s fight for freedom by arousing patriotic fervor.

4. Explain briefly in what political circumstance was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed.

Answer:

The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed on March 5, 1931 between Mahatma Gandhi and the then Viceroy, Lord Irwin.

Political Circumstances

The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930) created unrest.
The British government wanted peace before the Second Round Table Conference.
The government needed Gandhi’s cooperation to restore order.

Terms of the Pact

Gandhi agreed to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement.
British agreed to:
- Withdraw repressive laws.
- Release political prisoners.
- Allow peaceful picketing.
- Permit Indians to make salt in coastal areas.

Conclusion

The pact marked a temporary truce but demonstrated Gandhi’s influence and the growing strength of the freedom movement.

5. Discuss the role of Mahatma Gandhi in India’s freedom struggle.

(Same as Question 1 – refer above.)

6. Who were the members of the Cabinet Mission? Write the expected proposal prepared by the Cabinet Mission for solving India’s political problem.

Answer:

Introduction

The Cabinet Mission came to India in March 1946 to discuss the transfer of power.

Members

Lord Pethick-Lawrence
Sir Stafford Cripps
A.V. Alexander

Proposals

India to remain united but divided into three groups:
- Group A: Hindu-majority provinces.
- Group B: Muslim-majority provinces.
- Group C: Princely states.
A Constituent Assembly to frame the Constitution.
Interim Government formed until full independence.

Conclusion

The plan failed due to differences between the Congress and the Muslim League, which later led to the partition of India.

7. Explain briefly the circumstances of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and discuss its terms.

(Refer to Answer 4 for details.)

8. Discuss the Non-Cooperation Movement launched under Gandhi’s leadership and mention the causes of its postponement.

(Refer to Answer 2, adding Chauri Chaura as the main reason for postponement.)

9. What were the main causes of the Civil Disobedience Movement? Discuss how Gandhi started this movement.

Answer:

Introduction

The Civil Disobedience Movement was launched by Gandhi in 1930 against unjust British laws.

Causes

Salt tax burdening common people.
Denial of civil rights and economic exploitation.
Failure of the Simon Commission.
Demand for Purna Swaraj (complete independence).

Beginning of the Movement

Gandhi started the Dandi March (12 March 1930) from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi.
Broke the salt law by making salt from seawater.
Nationwide protests followed.

Conclusion

Though suppressed, the movement united Indians and made independence inevitable.

10. On what circumstances did Mahatma Gandhi start the Non-Violence Movement? What was its agenda? Why did Gandhi stop this movement?

(Combination of Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience answers – I can prepare separately if needed.)

11. What do you understand by the term ‘Satyagraha’? Briefly write about the three local disputes where Gandhiji first applied it.

Answer:

Introduction

Satyagraha means “insistence on truth.” Gandhi used it as a method of non-violent resistance.

First Three Applications

Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Against indigo planters.
Kheda Satyagraha (1918): For tax relief to farmers.
Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918): For better wages of mill workers.

Conclusion

Satyagraha became the soul of India’s freedom struggle.

12. What was the background behind launching the Quit India Movement by Gandhi? How did he lead this movement?

Answer:

Introduction

The Quit India Movement was launched on 8 August 1942 demanding immediate British withdrawal.

Background

Failure of the Cripps Mission.
World War II hardships.
Rising nationalist sentiments.

Leadership

Gandhi’s slogan: “Do or Die”.
Mass strikes, protests, and sabotage.
British arrested Gandhi and other leaders, but protests continued.

Conclusion

Though suppressed, the movement showed that the British could no longer govern India without Indian consent.

13. What were positive and negative aspects of the Non-Cooperation Movement?

Answer:

Positive Aspects

Mass awakening of nationalism.
Hindu-Muslim unity.
Growth of swadeshi industries.
Spread of khadi and self-reliance.

Negative Aspects

Violence at Chauri Chaura.
Hindu-Muslim unity did not last.
Gandhi had to suspend the movement.

14. Write a brief note on the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

Answer:

Introduction

On 13 April 1919, British troops under General Dyer opened fire on a peaceful gathering at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar.

Details

Protest against the Rowlatt Act.
Hundreds killed, thousands injured.
Shocked the entire nation.

Impact

Strengthened the demand for independence.
Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement after this incident.

15. Give a brief description of the Quit India Movement. Why is this movement called the August Revolution?

(Refer to Answer 12, adding:)
It is called the August Revolution because it began in August 1942 and marked a turning point in India’s fight for freedom.

16. What were the main provisions of the Indian Independence Act, 1947?

Answer:

Main Provisions

Creation of two independent dominions: India and Pakistan.
Division of Punjab and Bengal.
Princely states free to join either dominion.
End of British rule and sovereignty to be transferred by 15 August 1947.

Very Short Questions

1. What is the full name of Mahatma Gandhi?
Answer: The full name of Mahatma Gandhi is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.

2. When was the First World War started?
Answer: The First World War started on 28th July 1914.

3. Who gained victory in the First World War?
Answer: The Allied Powers (Britain, France, Russia, Italy, Japan, and later the USA) gained victory.

4. When was the Russian Revolution taken place?
Answer: The Russian Revolution took place in 1917.

5. When was Mahatma Gandhi born?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2nd October 1869 at Porbandar in Gujarat.

6. Where did Gandhi go to study Law?
Answer: Gandhi went to London, England, in 1888 to study law.

7. In which country did Gandhi first apply the technique of Satyagraha?
Answer: Gandhi first applied the technique of Satyagraha in South Africa in 1906.

8. When did Gandhi return to India from South Africa?
Answer: Gandhi returned to India in January 1915.

9. Where did Gandhi take up the cause of peasants against landlords?
Answer: Gandhi took up the cause of peasants at Champaran in Bihar in 1917.

10. Where did Gandhi take up the cause of farmers against the collection of land-revenue when their crops failed?
Answer: Gandhi led the movement in Kheda, Gujarat, in 1918.

11. Until when was Gandhi the supporter of the British Government?
Answer: Gandhi supported the British Government till the passing of the Rowlatt Act in 1919.

12. When did the British Government pass the Rowlatt Act?
Answer: The Rowlatt Act was passed in March 1919.

13. Who was the Governor-General when the Rowlatt Act was passed in 1919?
Answer: Lord Chelmsford was the Governor-General.

14. Where did Gandhi start the Satyagraha in India?
Answer: Gandhi started Satyagraha in Champaran, Bihar, in 1917.

15. When was the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre taken place?
Answer: The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre took place on 13th April 1919.

16. Who ordered the British troops to fire on the unarmed and defenseless people at Jallianwala Bagh?
Answer: General Reginald Dyer ordered the firing.

17. Why did Rabindranath Tagore renounce his Knighthood?
Answer: Rabindranath Tagore renounced his Knighthood in protest against the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919.

18. Whom did the Muslims regard as their Khalifa or spiritual head?
Answer: The Muslims regarded the Sultan of Turkey as their Khalifa.

19. When was the Non-Cooperation Movement started?
Answer: The Non-Cooperation Movement started in August 1920.

20. When was the Non-Cooperation Movement came to an end?
Answer: It came to an end on 12th February 1922 after the Chauri-Chaura incident.

21. When did the Chauri-Chaura incident take place?
Answer: The Chauri-Chaura incident took place on 5th February 1922.

22. Who organised and led the procession against the Simon Commission at Lahore?
Answer: Lala Lajpat Rai organised and led the protest.

23. Who declared complete Independence as the chief goal of Indians?
Answer: The Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress in 1929, presided over by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, declared Purna Swaraj as the chief goal.

24. When was Independence Day celebrated throughout India before India’s Independence?
Answer: Independence Day was celebrated on 26th January 1930.

25. Which commission was accused of being an “All White Commission”?
Answer: The Simon Commission (1927) was called an “All White Commission”.

26. When was ‘Poorna Swaraj Day’ celebrated in India?
Answer: ‘Poorna Swaraj Day’ was celebrated on 26th January 1930.

27. When was Dandi March launched?
Answer: The Dandi March was launched on 12th March 1930.

28. Who was Frontier Gandhi?
Answer: Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan was known as the Frontier Gandhi.

29. Who led the Civil Disobedience Movement in North-West Frontier Province?
Answer: Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan led the movement there.

30. When was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact happened?
Answer: The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed on 5th March 1931.

31. Where was the Second Round Table Conference held?
Answer: It was held in London.

32. When was the Second Round Table Conference held?
Answer: The conference was held from 7th September to 1st December 1931.

33. When was the Civil Disobedience Movement re-started?
Answer: It was re-started in January 1932.

34. When was the Civil Disobedience Movement completely withdrawn?
Answer: It was finally withdrawn in April 1934.

35. Who announced the ‘Communal Award’ in 1932?
Answer: The British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald announced it on 16th August 1932.

36. Name the British Prime Minister who announced the Communal Award in 1932.

Answer: The British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald announced the Communal Award on 16th August 1932.

37. When was the demand for Pakistan first started?
Answer: The demand for Pakistan was first officially raised by the Muslim League in its Lahore Session on 23rd March 1940.

38. Who emphasised the Two-Nation Theory and demanded a separate homeland for the Muslims?
Answer: Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leader of the All India Muslim League, emphasised the Two-Nation Theory and demanded Pakistan.

39. Name the first Satyagrahi who was to court arrest.
Answer: Vinoba Bhave was the first Satyagrahi chosen by Gandhi to offer Satyagraha and court arrest in 1940.

40. Who was sent with new constitutional proposals by the British War Cabinet in March 1942?
Answer: Sir Stafford Cripps was sent to India in March 1942 with new constitutional proposals, known as the Cripps Mission.

41. When was the Second World War broken out?
Answer: The Second World War broke out on 1st September 1939.

42. When did Gandhi launch the Quit India Movement?
Answer: Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement on 8th August 1942 at the Bombay Session of the Indian National Congress.

43. During the course of which movement did Gandhi give the slogan “Do or Die”?
Answer: Gandhi gave the slogan “Do or Die” during the Quit India Movement of 1942.

44. Who was the founder of the Azad Hind Fauj?
Answer: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose founded the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army) in 1943.

45. Who formed the ‘Provisional Government of Free India’ in Singapore?
Answer: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose formed the Provisional Government of Free India on 21st October 1943 in Singapore.

46. What was the slogan of the Indian National Army?
Answer: The slogan of the Indian National Army (INA) was “Give me blood and I shall give you freedom”, given by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

47. “Give me blood and I shall give you freedom.” This famous quote is attributed to which Indian leader?
Answer: This famous quote is attributed to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

48. Who was hailed as ‘Netaji’ by the entire country?
Answer: Subhas Chandra Bose was affectionately hailed as ‘Netaji’ by the entire country.

48. Who sent the Cabinet Mission to India in 1946?

Answer: The British Prime Minister Clement Attlee sent the Cabinet Mission to India in March 1946.

49. Who observed ‘Direct Action Day’ on August 16, 1946?
Answer: The Muslim League, under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, observed Direct Action Day on 16th August 1946.

50. Why did the Muslim League observe ‘Direct Action Day’ on August 16, 1946?
Answer: The Muslim League observed Direct Action Day to demand the creation of Pakistan as a separate homeland for Muslims.

51. Who replaced Lord Wavell as the Viceroy of India in March 1947?
Answer: Lord Louis Mountbatten replaced Lord Wavell as the Viceroy of India in March 1947.

52. What is the name of the International Boundary Line between India and Pakistan?
Answer: The International Boundary Line between India and Pakistan is called the Radcliffe Line.

53. Gandhi started on his Salt March from Sabarmati Ashram to the sea coast at Dandi. What was the distance between Sabarmati Ashram to the sea coast at Dandi?
Answer: The distance between Sabarmati Ashram and Dandi was about 240 miles (390 kilometers).

54. Who was the sole Congress representative at the Second Round Table Conference in London?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi was the sole representative of the Indian National Congress at the Second Round Table Conference held in London in 1931.

Section B: Short Type Questions (Marks 2/3)

1. Who were the Allied forces?

Answer:
The Allied Forces were a coalition of countries that fought against the Central Powers during the First World War (1914–1918).
The main Allied Powers were:

Britain
France
Russia (until 1917)
Italy (joined in 1915)
Japan
United States (joined in 1917)

They emerged victorious against Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria.

2. What promise did the Allied forces make to India at the start of the First World War?

Answer:
At the beginning of the First World War (1914), the British Government promised Indians that if they supported Britain in the war, they would be granted self-government and greater political rights after the war ended.
However, these promises were not fulfilled, which led to widespread discontent and fueled nationalist movements.

3. How did the Russian Revolution influence the Indian leaders?

Answer:
The Russian Revolution of 1917 inspired Indian leaders by:

Demonstrating that oppressed people could overthrow imperialist and autocratic rule.
Encouraging socialist ideas among leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose.
Strengthening the belief that India too could achieve freedom through mass movements and unity.

4. Where and when did Gandhi begin the struggle of Indians against racism?

Answer:

Place: South Africa
Year: 1893
Mahatma Gandhi started his struggle against racial discrimination after facing personal humiliation when he was thrown out of a first-class train compartment at Pietermaritzburg station.
This incident marked the beginning of his fight against racism and injustice.

5. What is the meaning of ‘Satyagraha’?

Answer:
The term ‘Satyagraha’ was coined by Mahatma Gandhi.

Sanskrit origin: Satya = truth, Agraha = insistence
Meaning: “Holding firmly to truth” or “Truth force.”
It is a non-violent method of resisting injustice through peaceful protests, non-cooperation, and civil disobedience.

6. Who influenced Gandhi in evolving the concept of ‘Satyagraha’?

Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi was influenced by several thinkers and texts:

Leo Tolstoy’s ideas of non-violence and love.
Henry David Thoreau’s essay on Civil Disobedience.
The Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on selfless action.
These inspirations helped Gandhi develop Satyagraha as a unique philosophy of peaceful resistance.

7. Where, in India, did Gandhi solve three local disputes?

Answer:
Gandhi solved three major local disputes in India:

Champaran (Bihar, 1917): Supported peasants against indigo planters.
Ahmedabad Mill Strike (Gujarat, 1918): Helped mill workers demand better wages.
Kheda Satyagraha (Gujarat, 1918): Fought for tax relief for farmers during famine.

These struggles made Gandhi a national leader.

8. How did the Indians render valuable service to the British during the First World War?

Answer:
During World War I (1914–1918), Indians supported the British by:

Supplying soldiers: Over 1.3 million Indian soldiers fought for Britain.
Financial contributions: Indians provided money, food, and resources.
Medical assistance: Many Indian doctors and nurses served abroad.
However, the unfulfilled promises of reforms after the war caused widespread resentment.

9. What happened in India during the post-war years (after First World War)?

Answer:
After World War I ended in 1918, India faced:

Economic distress: High taxes, rising prices, and unemployment.
Repressive laws: Rowlatt Act (1919) curtailed freedoms.
Mass protests: Leading to events like the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919).
The period saw the growth of nationalism and Gandhi’s rise as a leader.

10. Give a brief account of Rowlatt Act, 1919.

Answer:

Passed by the British Government in March 1919.
Allowed the government to:
- Arrest and detain people without trial.
- Suppress press freedom.
Mahatma Gandhi strongly opposed it and launched a nationwide protest.
The act led to widespread agitation, culminating in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

11. What was Satyagraha, according to Gandhi?

Answer:
According to Mahatma Gandhi, Satyagraha was:

“Truth force” — the belief that truth ultimately triumphs.
A non-violent resistance against injustice.
Based on moral courage, self-suffering, and peaceful protest.
It became the cornerstone of India’s freedom struggle.

12. Mention any two causes that led to the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Answer:
Two major causes were:

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919): Brutal killing of innocent people angered Indians.
Khilafat Issue: British actions against the Khalifa of Turkey hurt Muslim sentiments.
Additionally, the Rowlatt Act and repressive policies also triggered the movement.

13. What was the positive aspect of the Non-Cooperation Movement?

Answer: The positive aspects are

United Hindus and Muslims in the national struggle.
Encouraged the boycott of foreign goods and promoted Swadeshi products.
Popularised Khadi and Charkha.
Strengthened the Indian National Congress and made it a mass movement.

14. What was the negative aspect of the Non-Cooperation Movement?

Answer: The negative aspects are

The movement turned violent in some places, especially during the Chauri-Chaura incident (1922) where a mob killed policemen.
Gandhi had to suspend the movement abruptly, causing disappointment.
Created temporary divisions within Congress leadership.

Alright! Let's continue Section B: Short Type Questions from Q15 to Q29 with clear, 2-3 mark answers.

Section B: Short Type Questions (Continued)

15. Give a brief account of the Chauri-Chaura incident.

Answer:

Date: 5th February 1922
Place: Chauri-Chaura in Gorakhpur district, Uttar Pradesh
Event:
- A peaceful protest by villagers turned violent when police fired on demonstrators.
- In retaliation, the angry mob set fire to the police station, killing 22 policemen.
Impact:
- Mahatma Gandhi, a staunch believer in non-violence, was deeply disturbed.
- He suspended the Non-Cooperation Movement on 12th February 1922.

16. Under what circumstances did Lala Lajpat Rai lose his life?

Answer:

Date: 30th October 1928
Place: Lahore
Lala Lajpat Rai led a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission.
The police, under James A. Scott, carried out a brutal lathi charge.
Lala Lajpat Rai was severely injured and later died on 17th November 1928 due to his injuries.
His death inspired revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.

17. Mention any three demands that Gandhi sought from the Viceroy Lord Irwin.

Answer:
In 1930, Gandhi presented 11 demands to Viceroy Lord Irwin, of which three major ones were:

Abolition of salt tax.
Reduction of land revenue and protection for farmers.
Cutting down military expenses and spending more on education and health.
When these demands were ignored, Gandhi launched the Civil Disobedience Movement.

18. Describe, in brief, the Dandi March.

Answer:

Date: 12th March 1930
Leader: Mahatma Gandhi
From: Sabarmati Ashram → Dandi (Gujarat)
Distance: 240 miles (390 km)
Purpose: To break the salt law imposed by the British.
Result: Gandhi made salt from seawater at Dandi on 6th April 1930, symbolizing defiance against British rule.
The march triggered the Civil Disobedience Movement across India.

19. What led to the boycott of the First Round Table Conference?

Answer:
The Indian National Congress boycotted the First Round Table Conference held in London (1930) because:

The British Government had ignored Congress’s demand for Poorna Swaraj.
The Civil Disobedience Movement was in full swing, and Congress leaders were in prison.
The conference lacked proper Indian representation and legitimacy.

20. Give a brief account of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact of 1931.

Answer:

Date: 5th March 1931
Parties: Mahatma Gandhi and Viceroy Lord Irwin
Key Terms:
1. Congress agreed to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement.
2. The British government agreed to release political prisoners.
3. Indians were allowed to make salt freely in coastal areas.
Outcome: Gandhi attended the Second Round Table Conference (1931) as a result of this pact.

21. Describe, in brief, the Second Round Table Conference in 1931.

Answer:

Date: 7th September to 1st December 1931
Place: London
Indian Representative: Mahatma Gandhi (sole Congress representative)
Outcome:
- No agreement was reached on constitutional reforms.
- The British focused on communal representation and division among communities.
After returning, Gandhi restarted the Civil Disobedience Movement in January 1932.

22. What happened during the restarting of the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1932?

Answer:

Gandhi restarted the Civil Disobedience Movement in January 1932.
The British government responded with mass arrests:
- Gandhi and other leaders were imprisoned.
- The Congress party was banned.
- Meetings and processions were declared illegal.
Despite repression, the movement continued until April 1934 when Gandhi withdrew it.

23. Write, in brief, about the formation of Congress Ministries in 1937.

Answer:

After the Government of India Act, 1935, provincial elections were held in 1937.
The Indian National Congress formed ministries in 7 provinces:
- Madras
- Bombay
- Bihar
- Central Provinces
- United Provinces
- Orissa
- NWFP (with support)
The ministries worked for social reforms, education, and relief measures, but resigned in 1939 when Britain dragged India into World War II without consultation.

24. What led to the resignation of Congress Ministries in 1939?

Answer:

In September 1939, Britain declared India’s participation in World War II without consulting Indian leaders.
The Congress ministries protested against this undemocratic decision.
As a result, they resigned from all seven provinces in October 1939.

25. Where and when and who started the demand for Pakistan?

Answer:

Where: Lahore
When: 23rd March 1940
Who: All India Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah
The Lahore Resolution demanded the creation of a separate nation called Pakistan for Muslims.

26. Describe, in brief, the Cripps Mission, 1942.

Answer:

Date: March 1942
Leader: Sir Stafford Cripps
Purpose: To seek Indian cooperation in World War II by promising dominion status after the war.
Proposal Highlights:
1. India would get dominion status after the war.
2. Provinces were allowed to opt out of the union.
Outcome: The Indian National Congress rejected the proposals because:
- No immediate transfer of power was promised.
- It encouraged partition.

27. Who was Captain Mohan Singh?

Answer:

Captain Mohan Singh was an Indian Army officer captured by the Japanese during World War II.
He later founded the Indian National Army (INA) in Singapore in 1942.
Later, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose reorganized the INA.

28. Write any two main features of Lord Mountbatten’s declaration on June 3, 1947.

Answer:
Lord Mountbatten’s plan proposed:

Partition of India into India and Pakistan.
Transfer of power to Indian leaders by 15th August 1947.
Provinces and princely states were given the choice to join either India or Pakistan.

29. Short Notes

(a) Rowlatt Act, 1919 [HSLC]

The Rowlatt Act was passed by the British Government in 1919. It gave the authorities power to arrest and detain people without trial for up to two years on mere suspicion of involvement in revolutionary activities. It also allowed the government to suppress the press and curb civil liberties.
Mahatma Gandhi strongly opposed the act, calling it “Black Law”. He launched a nationwide Satyagraha against it. This act deeply angered Indians and intensified the struggle for independence.

(b) Satyagraha [HSLC]

Satyagraha was a method of non-violent resistance introduced by Mahatma Gandhi. The word comes from Sanskrit — “Satya” meaning truth and “Agraha” meaning firmness. It aimed at achieving justice and opposing injustice through peaceful protests, fasting, and non-cooperation rather than violence.
Gandhi first applied Satyagraha in South Africa and later used it in India during movements like the Champaran Satyagraha (1917), Kheda Satyagraha (1918), and Non-Cooperation Movement (1920).

(c) Khilafat Movement [HSLC]

The Khilafat Movement (1919-1924) was launched by Indian Muslims to protest against the dismantling of the Ottoman Caliphate by the British after World War I. The Ali Brothers — Mohammad Ali and Shaukat Ali — led the movement.
Gandhi supported it to unite Hindus and Muslims in the freedom struggle. It merged with the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), giving a significant boost to India’s fight for independence.

(d) Jallianwala Bagh Massacre [HSLC]

On 13th April 1919, thousands of Indians gathered peacefully at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar to protest against the Rowlatt Act. General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on the unarmed crowd without warning.
Over 1,000 people were killed and many were injured. This brutal act shocked the entire nation and intensified the freedom struggle, leading many moderate leaders to join the nationalist movement.

(e) Simon Commission [HSLC]

The Simon Commission was appointed by the British Government in 1927 to recommend constitutional reforms in India. It consisted of seven British members and no Indian representatives, which angered Indians.
The Congress and other nationalist groups boycotted the commission, raising the slogan “Simon Go Back”. During one such protest, Lala Lajpat Rai was injured in a police lathi-charge and later died. The widespread agitation further strengthened the freedom struggle.

(f) Second Round Table Conference [HSLC]

The Second Round Table Conference was held in London from September to December 1931 to discuss constitutional reforms in India.
Mahatma Gandhi, representing the Indian National Congress, attended as the sole representative. However, the conference failed due to disagreements between different political groups, especially Hindus, Muslims, and the British government. The failure led Gandhi to restart the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1932.

(g) Communal Award [HSLC]

The Communal Award was announced by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald on 16th August 1932. It granted separate electorates to various communities, including Dalits, Muslims, Sikhs, and others.
Mahatma Gandhi opposed it as it would divide Hindu society. To resolve the crisis, Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar signed the Poona Pact (1932), which replaced separate electorates for Dalits with reserved seats in joint electorates.

(h) Demand for Pakistan [HSLC]

The demand for Pakistan was first raised by Muhammad Iqbal in 1930, but it was formally adopted by the Muslim League under Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the Lahore Resolution of 1940.
The demand was based on the idea that Muslims and Hindus were two distinct nations and Muslims needed a separate homeland. This ultimately led to the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

(i) Cripps Mission [HSLC]

The Cripps Mission was sent to India in March 1942 by the British government under Sir Stafford Cripps to seek Indian support during World War II.
The mission proposed granting dominion status to India after the war and allowed provinces to opt-out of a united India. However, the Congress rejected it as it did not provide immediate self-government. Its failure led to the launch of the Quit India Movement (1942).

(j) Subhas Chandra Bose [HSLC]

Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly known as Netaji, was a prominent freedom fighter and nationalist leader. He formed the Indian National Army (INA) and gave the famous slogan:
“Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!”
Bose also established the Provisional Government of Free India in Singapore in 1943 and fought alongside the Axis powers against the British during World War II. His efforts inspired Indians to fight for complete independence.

(k) Clement Attlee [HSLC]

Clement Attlee was the Prime Minister of Britain from 1945 to 1951. He played a crucial role in granting independence to India.
Under his leadership, the Indian Independence Act was passed in July 1947, leading to the partition of India and the creation of India and Pakistan as independent nations on 15th August 1947.

(l) Radcliffe Line [HSLC]

The Radcliffe Line is the international boundary drawn between India and Pakistan in 1947. It was named after Sir Cyril Radcliffe, who was appointed to demarcate the borders.
The line divided the provinces of Punjab and Bengal based on religious majorities. However, it led to massive migration, communal riots, and loss of lives during partition.

C. Essay Type Questions

Marks: 4/5

Q1. Give an account of Mahatma Gandhi.

Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, was born on 2nd October 1869 at Porbandar in Gujarat. After studying law in London, he practiced in South Africa, where he first used Satyagraha to fight racial discrimination. Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and soon became a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress.

He launched several major movements against British rule, such as:

Champaran Satyagraha (1917): To help indigo farmers.
Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Against unjust taxes on farmers.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): Boycotting British goods and institutions.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Famous for the Dandi March.
Quit India Movement (1942): Demanding complete independence.

Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satya) united millions of Indians in the struggle for freedom. He played a vital role in India achieving independence in 1947. Gandhi was assassinated on 30th January 1948 but remains an eternal symbol of peace and justice.

**Q2. What do you understand by the term Satyagraha? Briefly write about the three local disputes where Gandhi first applied the technique of Satyagraha in India.**

Answer:
The term Satyagraha, coined by Mahatma Gandhi, means “insistence on truth” or “holding firmly to truth”. It is a method of peaceful protest and non-violent resistance to achieve justice. Gandhi believed that truth and non-violence could defeat injustice without hatred or violence.

Three local disputes where Gandhi first applied Satyagraha in India:

Champaran Satyagraha (1917):
- Farmers in Champaran, Bihar, were forced to grow indigo under unfair conditions.
- Gandhi intervened and, through peaceful protests, secured justice for the farmers.
Kheda Satyagraha (1918):
- Farmers in Kheda, Gujarat, faced famine but were forced to pay full taxes.
- Gandhi organized non-payment of taxes and negotiated relief for the peasants.
Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918):
- Cotton mill workers demanded higher wages.
- Gandhi led a peaceful strike and hunger fast, resulting in successful wage settlement.

These movements marked the beginning of Gandhi’s leadership in India’s freedom struggle.

Q3. Describe the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

Answer:
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre took place on 13th April 1919 in Amritsar, Punjab. Thousands of people gathered peacefully at Jallianwala Bagh to protest against the Rowlatt Act, 1919. Without any warning, General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on the unarmed crowd.

Hundreds were killed and thousands injured.
The massacre shocked the entire nation and exposed the brutal policies of British rule.
Rabindranath Tagore renounced his knighthood in protest, and Gandhi intensified the Non-Cooperation Movement.

The tragedy became a turning point in India’s struggle for independence, uniting Indians against British oppression.

Q4. Why was the Khilafat Movement started in India?

Answer:
The Khilafat Movement was launched in 1919 by Indian Muslims under the leadership of Ali Brothers — Mohammad Ali and Shaukat Ali. Its main aim was to protest against the dissolution of the Ottoman Caliphate by the British after World War I.

Reasons for starting the movement:

The Caliph, regarded as the spiritual leader of Muslims, was removed.
Indian Muslims feared religious suppression.
To strengthen Hindu-Muslim unity, Mahatma Gandhi supported the movement and merged it with the Non-Cooperation Movement.

However, the movement declined after the abolition of the Caliphate in 1924 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Turkey.

Q5. Write a long note on the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920).

Answer:
The Non-Cooperation Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 to protest against British rule after the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre and the Khilafat issue.

Objectives:

To attain Swaraj (self-rule) through peaceful means.
To boycott British goods, institutions, and services.

Programmes of the Movement:

Boycott of foreign clothes, schools, courts, and legislative councils.
Promotion of Swadeshi goods and hand-spun khadi.
Encouragement of national schools and colleges.

Suspension of the Movement:

In 1922, the movement was suspended after the Chauri-Chaura incident, where a violent mob killed policemen. Gandhi halted the agitation as it violated the principle of non-violence.

Impact:

First mass movement involving millions.
Strengthened Hindu-Muslim unity.
However, it failed to achieve immediate independence.

Q6. Write about the two aspects — positive and negative — of the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Answer:

Positive Aspects:

It united Indians across religion, caste, and region.
Promoted Swadeshi goods and reduced dependence on British products.
Popularized khadi and Indian handicrafts.
Gave Indians self-confidence and a sense of nationalism.

Negative Aspects:

The Chauri-Chaura incident led to violence, contradicting the movement’s ideals.
Swaraj was not achieved immediately.
Some people lost faith after Gandhi suspended the movement suddenly.

Despite setbacks, the movement awakened a spirit of mass resistance against British rule.

Q7. Write about the Simon Commission.

Answer:
The Simon Commission was appointed by the British Government in 1927 to review the working of the Government of India Act, 1919. It was headed by Sir John Simon.

Reasons for opposition:

All seven members were British; no Indian representation.
Indians saw it as an insult to their self-respect.

Protests:

Massive demonstrations were organized with the slogan “Simon Go Back”.
Lala Lajpat Rai led a protest in Lahore and was brutally lathi-charged, leading to his death.

Result:

The protests highlighted India’s demand for complete independence.
Later, the British proposed the Round Table Conferences to discuss constitutional reforms.

Q8. What was the main aim of the Civil Disobedience Movement? What were the main features of the movement?

Answer:
The Civil Disobedience Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 after the failure of the Simon Commission and dissatisfaction with British policies.

Main Aim:

To achieve Swaraj by refusing to obey unjust British laws peacefully.

Main Features:

Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha): Gandhi walked 240 miles from Sabarmati to Dandi to break the salt law.
Boycott of foreign cloth, liquor, and British goods.
Non-payment of taxes and revenue.
Peaceful demonstrations and picketing.
Active participation of women, students, peasants, and workers.

The movement played a crucial role in mobilizing masses and pressuring the British to negotiate with Indian leaders, leading to the Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931).

9. What were the eleven demands that Gandhi sought from the British Government during the Civil Disobedience Movement?

Mahatma Gandhi presented 11 demands to Lord Irwin, the then Viceroy, on January 31, 1930. These were considered essential for easing the grievances of Indians under British rule. If ignored, Gandhi warned that a Civil Disobedience Movement would begin.

The Eleven Demands:

Abolition of salt tax – Indians should be free to make salt.
Reduction in military expenditure and spending more on welfare.
Reduction of land revenue and rent for peasants.
Cutting down government salaries, especially for the highest officials.
Abolition of liquor and opium trade.
Protection of Indian textiles and industries from foreign imports.
Introduction of protective tariffs for Indian industries.
Freedom to hold peaceful protests and assemble.
Release of political prisoners.
Abolition of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) which suppressed dissent.
Issue of Indian currency and reforms in the rupee exchange rate.

Since the British government ignored these demands, Gandhi launched the Civil Disobedience Movement on March 12, 1930, starting with the Salt March.

10. Under what circumstances was the Quit India Movement launched? Do you consider the movement to be a milestone in India’s struggle for independence?

Circumstances Leading to the Quit India Movement:

Failure of the Cripps Mission (1942): The British refused to promise immediate independence after World War II.
Rising discontent: Indians were frustrated with economic hardship, high taxes, and British control.
Japanese threat during World War II: Japan’s victories raised fears of British collapse.
Gandhi decided that the British must quit India immediately.

Launch of the Movement:

On August 8, 1942, Gandhi gave the famous call: “Do or Die” at the Bombay session of the Congress.
The British arrested Gandhi and other leaders immediately.
Despite the crackdown, Indians launched strikes, protests, and sabotaged railways and communications.

Significance / Milestone:

It was the largest mass uprising against British rule.
It demonstrated India’s unity and determination.
Though suppressed violently, it convinced the British that their rule in India could not last.

Thus, the Quit India Movement became a turning point in India’s freedom struggle.

11. Write a brief note on the Indian National Army (INA).

The Indian National Army (INA) was founded by Rash Behari Bose in 1942 in Singapore and later reorganized by Subhas Chandra Bose.

Key Points:

Leader: Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly called Netaji.
Objective: To free India from British rule through armed struggle.
Slogan: “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom.”
Formation: Initially composed of Indian prisoners of war captured by Japan during World War II.
Provisional Government of Free India: Bose established this government on October 21, 1943, and declared war on Britain.
Military Campaigns: INA fought alongside the Japanese army in Burma and northeast India (notably at Imphal and Kohima).

Although INA’s military campaign failed, it inspired Indians and strengthened the freedom movement. The INA trials in 1945-46 triggered massive nationalist sentiments.

12. Give an account of the Cabinet Mission sent to India by Prime Minister Mr. Clement Attlee in 1946.

Background:

After World War II, Britain decided to transfer power to Indians.
The Cabinet Mission was sent by British PM Clement Attlee to discuss India’s independence and resolve Hindu-Muslim differences.

Members of the Cabinet Mission:

Lord Pethick-Lawrence
Sir Stafford Cripps
A.V. Alexander

Proposals:

Formation of a Constituent Assembly to draft India’s Constitution.
India to remain united, but grouped into three sections:
- Group A: Hindu-majority provinces.
- Group B: Muslim-majority provinces (Punjab, Sindh, NWFP, Baluchistan).
- Group C: Bengal and Assam.
Provinces could later opt out of any grouping.
Interim government to be formed at the Centre.

Outcome:

Initially accepted by Congress and Muslim League.
Later, the Muslim League withdrew and demanded Pakistan.
This failure eventually led to the partition of India in 1947.

13. What were the main provisions of the Indian Independence Act, 1947?

The Indian Independence Act was passed by the British Parliament on July 18, 1947.

Main Provisions:

Creation of Two Independent Dominions – India and Pakistan, effective 15 August 1947.
End of British rule: The authority of the British Crown ceased.
Division of Provinces:
- Punjab and Bengal were partitioned.
- Sindh and Baluchistan went to Pakistan.
Princely States: Freed from British suzerainty; they could join either dominion.
Legislatures and Constitutions:
- Each dominion could frame its own Constitution.
- Existing laws continued until changed.
Governor-General: Each dominion would have its own Governor-General.
Civil and Military Assets: Divided between India and Pakistan.
End of British Control Over Indian Army.

Significance:

Marked the official end of British rule.
Led to the partition of India and creation of Pakistan.
A major step towards India becoming a sovereign democratic republic.

Sakil Ahmed Classes