The Indian freedom movement was a long political, social, and cultural struggle against British colonial rule. It included constitutional reform, public protest, mass mobilization, revolutionary activity, social reform, and international diplomacy.
Early nationalism
In the late nineteenth century, newspapers, public meetings, political associations, and the Indian National Congress helped create a shared political vocabulary across regions.
Mass movements
The Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement brought large numbers of students, workers, farmers, women, and local communities into national politics.
Ideas and leadership
The movement included many approaches: non-violent resistance, constitutional negotiation, social reform, labor organization, revolutionary action, and regional political campaigns.
Independence
India became independent on 15 August 1947 after decades of mobilization, negotiation, sacrifice, and political change.