The Freedom Struggle – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Freedom Struggle

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5th

5th - Social Studies (SST)

The Freedom Struggle

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The Freedom Struggle

Chapter Overview

This chapter explores India's long and inspiring journey towards independence from British rule. It highlights key events, leaders, and movements that shaped the freedom struggle, emphasizing the sacrifices and efforts of countless Indians to achieve self-rule.

The Freedom Struggle refers to the collective efforts of Indians to gain independence from British colonial rule, spanning from the 1857 Revolt to 1947.

Major Events in the Freedom Struggle

  • Revolt of 1857: Often called the First War of Independence, it was a major uprising against British rule.
  • Formation of Indian National Congress (1885): A key organization that led the political movement for independence.
  • Partition of Bengal (1905): A divisive British policy that sparked nationwide protests.
  • Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Led by Mahatma Gandhi, it encouraged Indians to boycott British institutions.
  • Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Included the famous Salt March protesting British salt taxes.
  • Quit India Movement (1942): A mass demand for immediate British withdrawal from India.

Key Leaders of the Freedom Struggle

  • Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated non-violence and civil disobedience.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru: First Prime Minister of independent India.
  • Subhas Chandra Bose: Formed the Indian National Army to fight British rule.
  • Bhagat Singh: A revolutionary who sacrificed his life for freedom.
  • Sarojini Naidu: Known as the "Nightingale of India," she played a vital role in the struggle.

Non-violence (Ahimsa) was a core principle of India's freedom struggle, promoted by Mahatma Gandhi.

Role of Common People

Ordinary Indians, including farmers, workers, and women, participated in protests, boycotts, and marches. Their collective efforts strengthened the movement.

India's Independence (1947)

After years of struggle, India finally gained independence on August 15, 1947, marking the end of British colonial rule.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What was the slogan given by Subhash Chandra Bose to motivate Indians?
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose gave the slogan 'Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom' to inspire Indians.

Question 2:
Name the famous session where the demand for 'Purna Swaraj' was made.
Answer:

The demand for Purna Swaraj (complete independence) was made in the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress in 1929.

Question 3:
Which leader is associated with the slogan 'Do or Die'?
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi gave the slogan 'Do or Die' during the Quit India Movement in 1942.

Question 4:
Name the British law that allowed imprisonment without trial during the freedom struggle.
Answer:

The Rowlatt Act (1919) allowed the British to imprison Indians without trial, sparking widespread protests.

Question 5:
Who was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress?
Answer:

Annie Besant was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress in 1917.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Who was the first President of the Indian National Congress?
Answer:

The first President of the Indian National Congress was Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee. He presided over the first session in 1885.

Question 2:
Name the movement started by Mahatma Gandhi to protest against the salt tax.
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi started the Salt Satyagraha or Dandi March in 1930 to protest against the British salt tax.

Question 3:
What was the main aim of the Quit India Movement?
Answer:

The main aim of the Quit India Movement (1942) was to demand an end to British rule in India immediately.

Question 4:
Who is known as the 'Father of the Nation' in India?
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi is known as the 'Father of the Nation' for his leadership in India's freedom struggle.

Question 5:
Which event marked the beginning of the Indian freedom struggle in 1857?
Answer:

The Revolt of 1857, also called the First War of Independence, marked the beginning of the freedom struggle.

Question 6:
Name two leaders who fought against British rule from Bengal.
Answer:
  • Subhas Chandra Bose
  • Surendranath Banerjee
Question 7:
What was the slogan given by Subhas Chandra Bose to motivate Indians?
Answer:

Subhas Chandra Bose gave the slogan 'Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom' to inspire Indians.

Question 8:
Why is August 15, 1947, a significant date in Indian history?
Answer:

August 15, 1947, is significant because India gained independence from British rule on this day.

Question 9:
What was the role of Subhash Chandra Bose in the freedom struggle?
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose formed the Indian National Army (INA) to fight against British rule. His famous slogan was 'Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom'.

Question 10:
Name one important leader from the Non-Cooperation Movement.
Answer:

One important leader from the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was Jawaharlal Nehru, who later became India's first Prime Minister.

Question 11:
What was the significance of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre?
Answer:

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919) exposed British brutality and strengthened India's resolve for freedom.

Question 12:
Who founded the Indian National Army (INA)?
Answer:

The Indian National Army (INA) was founded by Subhas Chandra Bose to fight against British rule.

Question 13:
What role did women play in the freedom struggle?
Answer:

Women like Sarojini Naidu and Aruna Asaf Ali participated in protests, marches, and even led movements.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Who was known as the Father of the Nation in India's freedom struggle and why?
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi is known as the Father of the Nation because he led India's freedom movement with principles of non-violence and truth. He inspired millions to join the struggle through movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt March, and Quit India Movement. His leadership united people across religions and regions.

Question 2:
What was the significance of the Dandi March in the freedom struggle?
Answer:

The Dandi March (1930) was a peaceful protest against the British salt tax. Mahatma Gandhi walked 240 miles to Dandi to make salt from seawater, breaking the law.
This movement:

  • Showed the power of civil disobedience
  • United Indians against British rule
  • Gained international attention for India's freedom struggle

Question 3:
Name two leaders who fought for India's freedom besides Mahatma Gandhi and their contributions.
Answer:

Jawaharlal Nehru: First Prime Minister of India, promoted modern education and industrialization.
Bhagat Singh: A revolutionary who sacrificed his life for freedom, inspiring youth with his bravery.

Question 4:
What role did women play in India's freedom struggle? Give two examples.
Answer:

Women contributed significantly:

  • Sarojini Naidu: Led the Salt Satyagraha and was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress.
  • Rani Lakshmibai: Fought bravely against the British in the 1857 Revolt, becoming a symbol of resistance.

Question 5:
Why is August 15, 1947, an important date in Indian history?
Answer:

August 15, 1947, marks India's independence from British rule after a 200-year struggle.
It signifies:

  • The end of colonial rule
  • The birth of a free democratic nation
  • The fulfillment of freedom fighters' sacrifices

Question 6:
What was the Quit India Movement and its outcome?
Answer:

The Quit India Movement (1942) was a mass demand for immediate British withdrawal.
Key outcomes:

  • Widespread protests across India
  • Strengthened the freedom struggle
  • Forced the British to realize their rule was ending

Question 7:
Who was known as the Father of the Nation in India's freedom struggle? Explain his role briefly.
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi is known as the Father of the Nation for his leadership in India's freedom struggle. He introduced non-violent methods like Satyagraha and Civil Disobedience to fight British rule. His movements, such as the Dandi March and Quit India Movement, inspired millions to join the fight for independence.

Question 8:
What was the significance of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in the freedom struggle?
Answer:

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919) was a turning point in India's freedom struggle. British troops fired on unarmed Indians gathered in Amritsar, killing hundreds. This cruel act angered people across India, uniting them against British rule. It strengthened the demand for complete independence (Purna Swaraj) and increased support for leaders like Gandhi.

Question 9:
Name two important women leaders of the freedom struggle and their contributions.
Answer:

  • Sarojini Naidu: Known as the Nightingale of India, she joined Gandhi's movements and became the first woman president of the Indian National Congress.
  • Rani Lakshmibai: The brave queen of Jhansi who fought against the British in the 1857 Revolt, becoming a symbol of resistance.

Question 10:
What was the Dandi March? Why was it important?
Answer:

The Dandi March (1930) was a 24-day walk led by Gandhi to protest the British salt tax. Gandhi and followers made salt from seawater, breaking the law. This non-violent act showed defiance against British rule and inspired mass participation in the freedom struggle. It highlighted the power of peaceful protest.

Question 11:
Explain the role of Subhash Chandra Bose in India's freedom struggle.
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose, also called Netaji, believed in forceful resistance against the British. He formed the Indian National Army (INA) with the slogan Give me blood, and I will give you freedom. Though his methods differed from Gandhi's, his patriotism motivated many to join the freedom movement.

Question 12:
How did the Quit India Movement (1942) impact the freedom struggle?
Answer:

The Quit India Movement was Gandhi's call for the British to leave India immediately. Mass protests, strikes, and defiance spread nationwide. Though suppressed, it showed India's united demand for freedom. This movement weakened British control and paved the way for independence in 1947.

Question 13:
Name two important leaders of the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle and their contributions.
Answer:
  • Jawaharlal Nehru: First Prime Minister of India, promoted democracy and modernization.
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Unified princely states into India, earning the title Iron Man of India.
Question 14:
What role did Subhash Chandra Bose play in India's freedom struggle?
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose formed the Indian National Army (INA) to fight British rule.
His slogan "Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom" inspired many.
He sought international support for India's independence during World War II.

Question 15:
Why is August 15, 1947 a significant date in Indian history?
Answer:

August 15, 1947 marks India's independence from British rule after years of struggle.
It symbolizes the triumph of non-violence and unity.
India became a free nation, with Jawaharlal Nehru as its first Prime Minister.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain the significance of the Non-Cooperation Movement in India's freedom struggle. How did it inspire people across the country?
Answer:

The Non-Cooperation Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, was a major turning point in India's freedom struggle. It aimed to resist British rule through peaceful means by refusing to cooperate with the British government.

Significance:

  • It united people from different regions, religions, and social backgrounds under a common goal of Swaraj (self-rule).
  • Indians boycotted British goods, schools, courts, and titles, weakening the British economy and administration.
  • It popularized the use of Khadi (homespun cloth) to promote self-reliance and boycott foreign goods.

The movement inspired millions, including farmers, students, and women, to join the struggle. Though it was called off after the Chauri Chaura incident, it laid the foundation for future mass movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Question 2:
Describe the role of Subhash Chandra Bose in India's freedom struggle. How was his approach different from other leaders?
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose, also known as Netaji, was a revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in India's fight for independence. Unlike leaders like Gandhi who believed in non-violence, Bose advocated for a more aggressive approach.

Key Contributions:

  • He formed the Indian National Army (INA) with the help of Japan to fight against British rule.
  • His famous slogan, 'Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom', motivated many to join the struggle.
  • He sought international support for India's independence, including from Germany and Japan during World War II.

Bose's fearless leadership and determination made him a symbol of resistance. Though his methods were different, his goal of freeing India remained the same as other leaders.

Question 3:
Explain the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian Freedom Struggle. How did his methods of non-violence and civil disobedience inspire people across India?
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in India's freedom struggle. He introduced the principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience to fight against British rule. His methods were unique because they focused on peaceful protests, such as the Dandi March (1930) where he made salt to oppose the British salt tax, and the Quit India Movement (1942), which demanded an end to British rule.

Gandhi's ideas inspired millions of Indians to join the freedom movement without using violence. He believed in Satyagraha (truth force), where people stood firm for their rights through peaceful resistance. His leadership united people from different religions, castes, and regions, making the freedom struggle a mass movement.

Additionally, Gandhi promoted Swadeshi, encouraging Indians to use locally made goods instead of British products. This weakened the British economy in India. His simple lifestyle and dedication to truth and justice made him a beloved leader, and his teachings continue to inspire people worldwide.

Question 4:
Describe the significance of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in the Indian Freedom Struggle. How did it change the way Indians viewed British rule?
Answer:

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, which occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, was a turning point in India's freedom struggle. British troops, led by General Reginald Dyer, fired on a peaceful crowd gathered in Jallianwala Bagh to protest against oppressive British laws. Hundreds of innocent men, women, and children were killed, and thousands were injured.

This brutal event shocked the entire nation and made Indians realize the cruelty of British rule. It exposed the British government's harsh policies and lack of respect for Indian lives. The massacre deepened anger and resentment among Indians, leading to stronger demands for independence.

After this incident, many leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, intensified their efforts to fight for freedom. The massacre united people across India and strengthened the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922), where Indians boycotted British goods, schools, and courts. The Jallianwala Bagh tragedy remains a symbol of British oppression and is remembered as a key moment that fueled the fight for India's independence.

Question 5:
Explain the significance of the Non-Cooperation Movement in India's freedom struggle. How did it inspire people to join the fight for independence?
Answer:

The Non-Cooperation Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, was a major turning point in India's freedom struggle. It encouraged Indians to peacefully resist British rule by refusing to cooperate with the government. Here’s why it was significant:

  • Mass Participation: For the first time, common people, including farmers, students, and women, joined the movement, making it a nationwide protest.
  • Boycott of British Institutions: Indians stopped attending government schools, courts, and services, weakening British control.
  • Promotion of Swadeshi: People began using Indian-made goods instead of British products, boosting local industries.
  • Unity Among Indians: Hindus and Muslims united under the movement, showing solidarity against British rule.

The movement inspired people by proving that peaceful resistance could challenge British authority. Though it was called off in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident, it laid the foundation for future struggles like the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Question 6:
Describe the role of Subhash Chandra Bose in India's freedom struggle. How did his approach differ from other leaders?
Answer:

Subhash Chandra Bose, also known as Netaji, was a fearless leader who played a crucial role in India's fight for freedom. Unlike leaders like Gandhi who believed in non-violence, Bose advocated for a more aggressive approach.

  • Formation of the INA: He established the Indian National Army (INA) with the help of Japan to fight against British forces.
  • Slogan 'Give Me Blood, I Will Give You Freedom': His powerful words motivated thousands to join the struggle.
  • International Support: Bose sought help from countries like Germany and Japan to free India from British rule.

His approach differed because he believed that only armed resistance could force the British to leave India. Though his methods were controversial, his bravery and dedication inspired many. His famous quote, 'Jai Hind', became a rallying cry for freedom fighters.

Question 7:
Describe the role of Bhagat Singh in India's freedom struggle. How did his actions influence the youth of that time?
Answer:

Bhagat Singh was a revolutionary hero who fought fearlessly against British rule. His role in the freedom struggle was unique because he believed in bold actions to awaken the nation. Here’s how he contributed:

  • Revolutionary Activities: Along with his comrades, he protested against British laws, such as the Simon Commission, and even threw harmless bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly to make his voice heard.
  • Sacrifice: He willingly accepted punishment and was hanged at a young age, becoming a symbol of courage and patriotism.

Bhagat Singh’s bravery inspired countless young Indians to join the freedom movement. His famous slogan, "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution), motivated people to fight for justice and independence. Even today, he is remembered as a fearless martyr who dedicated his life to India’s freedom.

Question 8:
Explain the role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's freedom struggle. How did his methods of non-violence and civil disobedience inspire people?
Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in India's freedom struggle. He introduced the principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience to fight against British rule. His methods were unique because they focused on peaceful protests, such as the Dandi March (1930) where he made salt to oppose the British salt tax, and the Quit India Movement (1942), which demanded an end to British rule.

Gandhi's ideas inspired millions of Indians to join the freedom movement without using violence. He believed in Satyagraha (truth force), which taught people to resist injustice peacefully. His leadership united people across religions, castes, and regions, making the struggle stronger. For example, he worked closely with other leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel to organize protests and boycotts.

Gandhi's influence extended beyond India; his methods inspired global movements for civil rights and freedom, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s fight for equality in the USA. His legacy teaches us the power of truth, peace, and unity in achieving justice.

Question 9:
Describe the significance of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in India's freedom struggle. How did it change the way Indians viewed British rule?
Answer:

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, which occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, was a turning point in India's freedom struggle. British troops, led by General Reginald Dyer, fired on a peaceful crowd of unarmed Indians who had gathered to protest against oppressive laws like the Rowlatt Act. Hundreds were killed, and thousands were injured.

This brutal event shocked the nation and exposed the cruelty of British rule. Before the massacre, some Indians still believed in British fairness, but afterward, trust was completely broken. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore condemned the act, and Tagore even gave up his British knighthood in protest.

The massacre fueled anger and strengthened the demand for Swaraj (self-rule). It led to larger protests and united people across India against British oppression. The event also showed the world the harsh reality of colonial rule, gaining international sympathy for India's cause. The memory of Jallianwala Bagh remains a symbol of sacrifice and resistance in India's history.

Question 10:
Describe the role of Bhagat Singh in the Indian freedom struggle. How did his actions influence the youth of that time?
Answer:

Bhagat Singh was a brave revolutionary who fought fearlessly against British rule. He believed in direct action to achieve freedom and became a symbol of courage for Indians.

His contributions include:

  • Participating in the Lahore Conspiracy Case to protest against British oppression.
  • Throwing harmless bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly to make the British hear India's demands.
  • Using his trial as a platform to spread patriotic ideas.

Bhagat Singh's sacrifice inspired the youth to join the freedom struggle. His famous slogan, 'Inquilab Zindabad' (Long Live the Revolution), motivated many to fight for independence with boldness and determination.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
Read the following case: Rani was learning about the Non-Cooperation Movement in class. Her teacher explained how Indians boycotted British goods and institutions. Rani wondered how this affected the British economy.

Based on the case, answer: How did the boycott of British goods during the Non-Cooperation Movement impact the British economy, and why was it an effective strategy?

Answer:

The boycott of British goods during the Non-Cooperation Movement hurt the British economy because Indians stopped buying their products, leading to a drop in sales and profits. British industries, especially textiles, faced huge losses as Indian handmade goods like khadi became popular.

This strategy was effective because:

  • It weakened Britain's economic control over India.
  • It promoted Indian self-reliance (Swadeshi) and unity.
  • It showed the power of peaceful protest in the freedom struggle.

Gandhiji encouraged this boycott to protest unfair British policies without violence.

Question 2:
Case: Arjun read about the Dandi March in his textbook. He learned that Gandhiji and his followers walked 240 miles to make salt from seawater. Arjun was confused about why making salt was so important.

Based on the case, explain why the Dandi March was a significant event in India's freedom struggle.

Answer:

The Dandi March was significant because it protested the British salt tax, which unfairly taxed a basic necessity. By making salt from seawater, Gandhiji broke the British law symbolically, showing Indians could resist oppression.

Key reasons for its importance:

  • It united people across India in peaceful civil disobedience.
  • It exposed the cruelty of British laws, gaining global attention.
  • It inspired millions to join the freedom struggle with courage.

This event proved that even small acts of defiance could challenge British rule powerfully.

Question 3:
Case: Priya saw a poster of Bhagat Singh in her school library. She knew he was a freedom fighter but didn’t understand why he chose a different path from Gandhiji’s non-violence.

Based on the case, compare the methods of Bhagat Singh and Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle. What was the goal of both leaders?

Answer:

Bhagat Singh believed in armed resistance against the British, while Mahatma Gandhi followed non-violence (Ahimsa).

Comparison:

  • Bhagat Singh: Used revolutionary methods (like protests and sacrifices) to awaken Indians against British cruelty.
  • Gandhiji: Led mass movements (e.g., Non-Cooperation, Quit India) through peace and unity.

Both leaders aimed for India's independence but had different approaches. Bhagat Singh inspired youth with bravery, while Gandhiji mobilized common people through truth and non-violence.

Question 4:
Read the following case: During the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji urged people to boycott British goods and institutions. Ramesh, a 5th grader, wants to understand why this was important. Explain the significance of the boycott in the freedom struggle with examples.
Answer:

The boycott of British goods and institutions was a powerful tool during the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Here’s why it was important:

  • Economic Impact: By refusing to buy British goods like clothes and salt, Indians weakened Britain’s economy. For example, people started using khadi (homespun cloth) instead of British-made textiles.
  • Unity & Self-Reliance: The boycott encouraged Indians to rely on their own products, promoting Swadeshi (self-sufficiency). Schools, courts, and government jobs were also boycotted to reject British control.
  • Peaceful Protest: Unlike violent methods, boycotting was a peaceful way to challenge British rule, aligning with Gandhi’s principle of Ahimsa (non-violence).

This movement showed how ordinary people could contribute to the freedom struggle without weapons.

Question 5:
Case: During the Salt March, Gandhiji and thousands of others walked 240 miles to make salt from seawater. Priya wonders why salt was chosen for this protest. Explain the symbolic and practical reasons behind the Salt March.
Answer:

The Salt March was a brilliant strategy by Gandhiji for two key reasons:

  • Symbolic Reason: Salt was a basic necessity used by every Indian, rich or poor. By defying the British salt tax, Gandhi showed how British laws oppressed even the poorest.
  • Practical Reason: Making salt from seawater was simple and could be done by anyone. This united people across India in a common act of defiance. For example, villagers joined by collecting salt illegally, breaking the British monopoly.

The march also gained global attention, exposing British injustice. It proved that small acts of resistance could challenge a mighty empire.

Question 6:
Case: The Quit India Movement of 1942 was a turning point in the freedom struggle. Rahul’s grandfather recalls how students like him left schools to join protests. Describe the role of students and common people in this movement and its impact.
Answer:

During the Quit India Movement, students and common people played a heroic role:

  • Students’ Participation: Many students boycotted schools to join protests, distributed pamphlets, and organized strikes. For example, they shouted the slogan ‘Do or Die’ to inspire others.
  • Common People’s Role: Farmers, workers, and even women participated by holding demonstrations, refusing to pay taxes, or disrupting British railways and offices.

The movement united Indians like never before, forcing the British to realize that ruling India was no longer possible. It paved the way for India’s independence in 1947.

Question 7:
Read the following case: During the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji urged people to boycott British goods and institutions. Many students left schools, and lawyers stopped attending courts.

Based on this, answer: Why did Gandhiji encourage the boycott of British goods and institutions? How did this help in the freedom struggle?

Answer:

Gandhiji encouraged the boycott of British goods and institutions to weaken the British economy and administration in India. Non-cooperation was a peaceful way to protest against British rule without using violence.

  • By boycotting British goods, Indians reduced the profits of British industries, hurting their economic control.
  • Leaving schools and courts disrupted British systems, showing unity among Indians.

This movement made Indians self-reliant by promoting Swadeshi goods and strengthened the fight for freedom by uniting people across different backgrounds.

Question 8:
Case: The Salt March was a key event in India's freedom struggle. Gandhiji and his followers walked 240 miles to make salt from seawater, defying the British salt law.

Question: What was the significance of the Salt March? How did it inspire common people to join the freedom struggle?

Answer:

The Salt March was significant because it challenged the British monopoly on salt, a basic necessity. By making salt illegally, Gandhiji showed that unjust laws could be defied peacefully.

  • It united Indians from all backgrounds, as even the poorest understood the importance of salt.
  • The march gained global attention, exposing British oppression.

Common people were inspired because the protest was simple yet powerful. Many joined by making salt, boycotting British salt, and participating in protests, strengthening the freedom movement.

Question 9:
Case: The Quit India Movement of 1942 was a major turning point in India's struggle for independence. Gandhiji gave the slogan 'Do or Die,' urging Indians to demand complete freedom.

Question: Why was the Quit India Movement different from earlier movements? How did it impact British rule?

Answer:

The Quit India Movement was different because it demanded immediate independence, unlike earlier movements that sought reforms. Gandhiji's 'Do or Die' slogan motivated mass participation.

  • It was a nationwide protest, involving students, farmers, and workers, disrupting British control.
  • The British responded harshly, arresting leaders, but this only increased public anger.

The movement weakened British authority, as they realized Indians would no longer accept partial freedom. It paved the way for India's independence in 1947.

Question 10:
Read the following case: During the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji urged people to boycott British goods and institutions. Ramesh, a 5th grader, wants to understand why this was important. Explain the significance of the boycott strategy in the freedom struggle.
Answer:

The boycott strategy was a powerful tool during the Non-Cooperation Movement. By refusing to buy British goods, Indians weakened the British economy, which relied heavily on Indian markets.

This also promoted Swadeshi (using Indian-made products), which helped local industries grow.

Boycotting British schools and courts showed unity and defiance, making the British realize Indians could govern themselves.

This peaceful protest inspired millions to join the freedom struggle without violence.

Question 11:
Case: During the Salt March, Gandhiji and his followers walked 240 miles to make salt from seawater. Priya wonders why salt was chosen for this protest. Explain the symbolic and practical reasons behind the Salt March.
Answer:

The Salt March was a brilliant protest because salt was a basic necessity used by everyone, rich or poor.

The British had imposed a salt tax, which hurt the poorest Indians the most.

By making salt illegally, Gandhiji showed that British laws were unfair and could be challenged.

Symbolically, it united people across India, as everyone understood the importance of salt in daily life.

This simple act became a powerful way to protest British rule without violence.

Question 12:
Case: After learning about the Quit India Movement, Rohan asks why it was called the 'Do or Die' movement. Explain the importance and impact of this movement in India's freedom struggle.
Answer:

The Quit India Movement (1942) was called 'Do or Die' because Gandhiji urged Indians to fight for freedom with total dedication—either free India or perish trying.

It was a mass protest demanding immediate British withdrawal from India.

Though the British arrested leaders quickly, the movement inspired widespread protests, strikes, and underground activities.

It showed the British that Indians were united and determined, making it clear that their rule couldn't last.

This movement strengthened the demand for independence, which was achieved just five years later.

Question 13:
Read the following case: During the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji urged people to boycott British goods and institutions. Many students left schools, lawyers stopped practicing, and people burned foreign clothes.

Based on this, answer: Why did Gandhiji encourage the boycott of British goods, and how did it impact the freedom struggle?

Answer:

Gandhiji encouraged the boycott of British goods to weaken the economic power of the British in India. By refusing to buy their products, Indians reduced Britain's profits and showed unity against colonial rule.


The impact of this boycott was significant:

  • It promoted Swadeshi goods, helping Indian industries grow.
  • It united people across different regions and communities for a common cause.
  • It showed the British that Indians could resist their rule peacefully.

This movement strengthened the freedom struggle by making more people aware of their rights and the power of collective action.

Question 14:
Case: In 1930, Gandhiji led the Dandi March to protest against the British salt tax. Thousands joined him in making salt from seawater, breaking the law.

Question: What was the main purpose of the Dandi March, and why was salt chosen as a symbol of protest?

Answer:

The main purpose of the Dandi March was to challenge the unfair British salt tax, which affected all Indians, especially the poor. By making salt illegally, Gandhiji showed that British laws could be defied peacefully.


Salt was chosen as a symbol of protest because:

  • It was a basic necessity used by everyone, rich or poor.
  • The British monopoly on salt production hurt Indian livelihoods.
  • It was a simple yet powerful way to involve the masses in the freedom struggle.

This event inspired many Indians to join the movement, making it a turning point in the fight for independence.

Question 15:
Case: The Quit India Movement of 1942 was a mass protest demanding an end to British rule. Gandhiji gave the slogan 'Do or Die', urging people to act fearlessly.

Question: What was the significance of the Quit India Movement, and how did it differ from earlier protests?

Answer:

The Quit India Movement was significant because it was a final push for complete independence. Unlike earlier protests, it was more intense and widespread, involving students, farmers, and workers across India.


Key differences from earlier movements:

  • It demanded immediate British withdrawal, not just reforms.
  • It saw mass participation, including women and youth, showing national unity.
  • The British responded harshly, arresting leaders, but the movement kept the freedom struggle alive.

This movement made it clear that Indians would no longer accept British rule, paving the way for independence in 1947.

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