By the beginning of the 20th century, dissatisfaction with the moderate leaders of the Indian National Congress grew rapidly. The failure of constitutional reforms, the arrogance of the British, and the impact of the Partition of Bengal (1905) gave rise to a more assertive and militant phase of Indian nationalism. This new leadership, known as the Extremists, believed in direct action and mass participation to achieve Swaraj (self-rule).
Background
-
Growing discontent with the moderate policy of petitions and prayers, which achieved little.
-
Harsh and exploitative British economic policies led to widespread poverty and unemployment.
-
The Partition of Bengal (1905) ignited anger and united people against the government.
-
Influence of leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, who advocated assertive methods.
-
International influences: success of Japan in the Russo-Japanese War (1904–05) and the rise of nationalism in Ireland, Egypt, and Russia inspired Indians.
Main Leaders
-
Bal Gangadhar Tilak (Maharashtra): Popularly called Lokmanya. He gave the slogan “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it.” He used festivals like Ganapati and Shivaji Jayanti to mobilize people.
-
Bipin Chandra Pal (Bengal): Advocated radical methods like boycott and Swadeshi.
-
Lala Lajpat Rai (Punjab): Known as the Lion of Punjab, he inspired the youth with his fiery speeches and writings.
-
Together, they were called Lal-Bal-Pal.
-
Aurobindo Ghosh: Advocated complete independence and inspired revolutionary movements.
Methods of Extremists
-
Boycott of foreign goods and promotion of Swadeshi industries.
-
Use of mass agitation, strikes, and public demonstrations.
-
Emphasis on national education free from government control.
-
Mobilization of students, youth, and common people into the movement.
-
Encouragement of self-reliance and self-confidence among Indians.
Differences with Moderates
-
Moderates believed in gradual reforms and constitutional methods.
-
Extremists demanded immediate self-rule and direct confrontation with the British.
-
Moderates relied on petitions, speeches, and appeals, while Extremists believed in boycott, passive resistance, and mass struggle.
Impact of Extremist Nationalism
-
Spread nationalism to the masses, beyond the educated elite.
-
Instilled courage, self-confidence, and a sense of pride in Indian culture and history.
-
Popularized the demand for Swaraj as the ultimate goal of the freedom struggle.
-
Inspired a new generation of revolutionaries and set the stage for future movements.
Key Takeaway
The rise of Extremists marked a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom. Moving beyond moderate methods, they gave the national movement a militant spirit, mass character, and the uncompromising goal of Swaraj. Their assertive nationalism laid the foundation for the next phase of the independence struggle, eventually culminating in Gandhi’s mass movements.