Introduction

The 1920s and 1930s became an important phase in India's history, when the movement for self-governance and independence became more active and organized. After World War I, Indians began to realize their strength and unity, leading to a series of significant political events and protests against colonial rule. This article will examine the key moments of the struggle for self-governance in India during this period.

Context and Background

After the end of World War I in 1918, India faced a number of economic and social difficulties. The intensification of class conflicts, rising food prices, and high taxes caused discontent among the population. The political situation also worsened, as British authorities responded to the growing discontent with repressive measures, such as the Rowlatt Act (1919), which restricted civil liberties.

In response to these events, an active movement for self-governance began in India. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi started calling for nonviolent protests and actions.

Gandhi and Nonviolent Resistance

Mahatma Gandhi, one of the most influential leaders of the Indian nationalist movement, became the main symbol of the struggle for self-governance. In 1920, he launched the "Nonviolent Resistance" (Satyagraha) movement, which urged Indians to refuse cooperation with British authorities. The key principles of this movement included:

• Nonviolence: Gandhi believed that the struggle for freedom should occur without the use of violence.
• Civil Disobedience: Indians should consciously violate unjust laws and directives of British authorities.
• Economic Self-Sufficiency: Gandhi called for a boycott of British goods and support for local production.

These ideas became the foundation for numerous protests, including the boycott of British goods and mass demonstrations.

The Movement for Self-Governance

In the 1920s, the movement for self-governance took on more organized forms. In 1929, the Indian National Congress, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, adopted a resolution for complete independence for India. This declaration became an important step towards self-governance, leading to a series of key events:

• Satyagraha of 1930: Gandhi began his famous "Salt March" from Sabarmati to the sea to protest against British salt monopolies. This action attracted wide attention and support.
• Formation of New Organizations: Alongside the Indian National Congress, new political organizations emerged, such as the All-India Muslim League, which represented the interests of the Muslim population.
• Economic Boycott: Gandhi and other leaders called for boycotting British goods and taxes, which also contributed to the growth of local production.

These actions contributed to a rise in national consciousness and strengthened unity among Indians.

Response of British Authorities

The British government, concerned about the growing protests, began taking measures to suppress the self-governance movement. Among the measures taken by British authorities were:

• Arrests of Leaders: In response to mass protests, British authorities arrested many leaders of the national movement, including Gandhi.
• Repressive Laws: New laws were introduced that restricted freedom of assembly and expression.
• Use of Force: The use of force to disperse protests and suppress riots led to numerous casualties and an escalation of violence.

These actions only intensified discontent and the desire of Indians to fight for their rights.

Rise of Nationalist Sentiments

The 1920s and 1930s witnessed a significant rise in nationalist sentiments in India. Ideas of complete independence became more pronounced, and more radical groups advocating for immediate liberation from colonial rule began to emerge.

By this time, it became apparent that the movement for self-governance encompassed not only elites but also broad masses of the population, including peasants, workers, and youth. Many people began to participate in protests, and new leaders advocating for the interests of various population groups emerged.

Conclusion

The period from 1920 to the 1930s was key in India's history, when the movement for self-governance became more organized and mass-based. During this time, Mahatma Gandhi became a symbol of the struggle for independence, and his ideas of nonviolent resistance inspired millions of Indians. Despite repression from British authorities, the movement for self-governance only grew stronger, ultimately leading to more active actions in the following decade that resulted in India's independence in 1947.

The struggle for self-governance in India during this period demonstrated the strength of the people and their desire for freedom, as well as laid the foundations for future generations who continued to fight for their rights and independence.

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