Global MCQ Practice

Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 78

In which session of the Congress both Extremist and Moderate leaders were united?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the session where the differences between the factions were reconciled.

Correct Answer: B) Lucknow

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, was a significant political organization that played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. Over time, the Congress developed two main factions: the Moderates and the Extremists. The Moderates, led by figures such as Gopal Krishna Gokhale, advocated for gradual reforms and cooperation with the British, while the Extremists, led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, called for more radical measures and immediate self-rule.

The differences between these factions were significant and often led to internal conflicts within the Congress. However, the political landscape changed with the onset of World War I and the subsequent need for a united front against British rule. The Lucknow session of the Indian National Congress, held in 1916, marked a turning point in the history of the Congress as it saw the reconciliation between the Extremist and Moderate factions.

The Lucknow session was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it was the first time since the Surat split of 1907 that the two factions came together. The session was presided over by Ambica Charan Mazumdar, and it was attended by both Extremist and Moderate leaders. The session also saw the signing of the Lucknow Pact, which was an agreement between the Indian National Congress and the All-India Muslim League. This pact was a significant step towards Hindu-Muslim unity and aimed to present a united front against British rule.

The Lucknow session was crucial in bringing together the different factions of the Congress and setting the stage for future political strategies and movements. It demonstrated the Congress's ability to overcome internal divisions and work towards a common goal. The unity achieved at the Lucknow session was a significant milestone in the Indian independence movement and helped to strengthen the Congress's position as the leading political organization in India.

Understanding the historical context and significance of the Lucknow session is essential for comprehending the dynamics within the Indian National Congress and the broader Indian independence movement. The session marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Congress and played a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian politics.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: The Madras session of the Indian National Congress did not see the unity of Extremist and Moderate leaders. It was a significant session but not the one where the factions reconciled.
  • Option B: The Lucknow session of 1916 is the correct answer as it was the session where the Extremist and Moderate factions of the Indian National Congress united. This session is also known for the Lucknow Pact, which brought together the Congress and the Muslim League.
  • Option C: The Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress was important but did not mark the unity of Extremist and Moderate leaders. It was a session where other significant decisions were made.
  • Option D: The Banaras session of the Indian National Congress is not known for the unity of Extremist and Moderate leaders. It was a significant session but not the one where the factions reconciled.

Mnemonic: LUCNOW - Leaders United in Congress, Not Opposed With

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