Explanations:The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, was a pivotal organization in the Indian independence movement. It had two main factions: the Moderates and the Extremists. The Moderates, including Gopal Krishna Gokhale, believed in a gradual approach to achieving self-government within the British Empire. They advocated for constitutional reforms, petitions, and legal means to secure their demands. Gokhale, in particular, was known for his intellectual contributions and his role in the Indian National Congress, where he worked alongside other Moderates like Dadabhai Naoroji and Surendranath Banerjee.
The Moderates were characterized by their belief in the power of persuasion and the rule of law. They sought to work within the existing political framework to achieve their goals, rather than resorting to more radical methods. Gokhale's approach was marked by his emphasis on education, economic development, and the gradual improvement of the Indian political system. He was a strong advocate for the rights of Indians and worked tirelessly to improve their conditions within the colonial framework.
On the other hand, the Extremists, led by figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai, were more radical in their approach. They believed in direct action, mass mobilization, and the use of force if necessary to achieve independence. This faction emerged in response to the perceived failures of the Moderates and the increasing frustration with the slow pace of change.
It is important to distinguish between the different factions and their leaders to understand the complex dynamics of the Indian independence movement. Gopal Krishna Gokhale, as a Moderate leader, represents a significant phase in the struggle for Indian self-rule, characterized by a more measured and constitutional approach.