Which Period of History is Called ‘Gandhian Era’ and Why?

The period between 1919-1948 is known as the “Gandhian Era” because of the initiatives which were taken by Mahatma Gandhi to attain independence for India and it was the time when Gandhiji was preaching for freedom and had support from the whole nation.

The Gandhian Era is named after Gandhi, who was the most renowned leader during this time period and whose actions and ideology had a huge impact on India’s independence fight. Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance philosophy and belief in employing civil disobedience to effect political change influenced a generation of Indians.

Dandi March

Major Events in the Gandhian Era

The slaughter at Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 was a watershed moment in Gandhi’s leadership. The massacre, in which British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering of Indians, inspired Gandhi and the Indian National Congress to call for independence from British control.

1. Non-Cooperation Movement: In 1920, Gandhi founded the Non-Cooperation Movement, calling on Indians to boycott British goods and institutions. The movement was a watershed point in India’s freedom struggle because it highlighted the effectiveness of nonviolent opposition.
2. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre occurred on 13th April 1919 and became one of the important turning points in India’s freedom movement. Mass movement and support were gained in Punjab for the Rowlatt Satyagraha.
3. Popularization of Swadeshi Goods: Gandhi encouraged Indians to consume locally produced goods and to foster self-sufficiency. Gandhi’s ideology of nonviolent resistance and promoting Indian culture and industry was central to the Swadeshi movement.
4. Swaraj Party: Gandhi and other Indian leaders founded the Swaraj Party in 1923. The party’s goal was to achieve peaceful independence from British authority.

Increased Participation In Gandhian Era

Gandhi’s leadership and ideology inspired more people to join the independence movement. Millions of Indians took part in demonstrations, strikes, and other forms of civil disobedience. Gandhiji tried to ally with the Khilafat leaders and launched the Non-Cooperation Movement against the British government, by sensing a change for Hindu-Muslim unity. He succeeded in ensuring a form of broad participation of all classes of society. Women, children, workers as well as peasants, who were previously not so engrossed, participated in the Non-Cooperation movement because of Gandhi.

Finally, Gandhi’s movements and leadership significantly increased involvement in India’s freedom struggle and resulted in significant socioeconomic reforms. His memory continues to motivate people all across the world to strive for a more just and equal society. The Quit India Movement was one of the last strong mass movements launched under the Indian National Congress under the leadership of Gandhiji.

Movements by Gandhi and Changes

Gandhi led various campaigns and activities during his life to achieve independence, promote social justice, and improve the lives of India’s oppressed groups. His acts resulted in tremendous changes in India, including the end of British rule and the formation of the Indian Republic.

Gandhi’s movements and leadership inspired many individuals to join the cause for India’s freedom. The Salt March, a nonviolent protest against the British monopoly on salt manufacturing in India, was one of his most renowned movements. This march brought together millions of Indians and began a nationwide civil disobedience movement.

Gandhi also led the Non-Cooperation Movement, encouraging Indians to boycott British goods, schools, and government institutions. This movement was crucial because it demonstrated the strength of Indian unity and aided in the development of national pride and a feeling of identity.

Gandhi’s leadership and activity also resulted in substantial social transformations in India. He pushed for equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background, and fought against the caste system, which constituted an unjust social structure. He also influenced a new generation of leaders who fought for India’s independence, social justice, and equality.

Related Links

1. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the National Movement
2. What were the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi?
3. Constructive Programmes of Mahatma Gandhi
4. Relevance of Gandhi in the 21st Century

FAQs on the Gandhian Era

Q 1. Which period of history is referred to as the Gandhian era and why?

Answer-

The period between 1919-1948 is known as Gandhian Era because of the different movements and initiatives which were taken by Gandhiji for the attainment of Indian independence.

Q 2. Which was the first Gandhian movement?

Answer-

The Champaran satyagraha which had taken place in 1917 was first satyagraha which was undertaken by Gandhi in India.

Q 3. Mention three movements in the Gandhian era.

Answer-

Three important movements of Gandhiji include:

1. Champaran Movement of 1917
2. Kheda Movement in 1918
3. Khilafat Movement 1919