- The Non-Cooperation Movement was a major turning point in the Indian independence movement.
- It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 in response to the Rowlatt Act, which gave the British government sweeping powers to repress political dissent.
The main features:
- Boycott of British goods and institutions: This included refusing to buy British goods, use British schools and colleges, or serve in the British army.
- Civil disobedience: This included refusing to obey British laws and regulations.
- Non-violence: This was a key principle of the Non-Cooperation Movement. Gandhi believed that violence would only alienate the British and make it more difficult to achieve independence.
The Non-Cooperation Movement was a major success. It brought the Indian independence movement to the attention of the world and shook the foundations of British rule in India. However, it was also met with repression from the British government. Thousands of Indians were arrested and many were killed.
Reasons for the success of the Non-Cooperation Movement:
- The leadership of Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi was a charismatic and popular leader who was able to unite Indians across religious and social divides.
- The widespread support of the Indian people: The Non-Cooperation Movement was supported by a wide range of Indians, from students and professionals to peasants and workers.
- The international attention: The Non-Cooperation Movement attracted international attention, which put pressure on the British government to make concessions to the Indian independence movement.
Significance
- The Non-Cooperation Movement was a major turning point in the Indian independence movement.
- It showed that the Indian people were united in their desire for independence and that they were willing to use nonviolent means to achieve it.
- The movement also helped to raise awareness of the Indian independence movement around the world.
Called off
- The Non-Cooperation Movement was eventually called off in 1922 after Gandhi was arrested for his role in the Chauri Chaura incident, in which a mob of Indians killed 22 policemen.
- However, it had a lasting impact on the Indian independence movement and helped to pave the way for India’s independence in 1947.