Concept notes: Dadabhai Naoroji, known as the "Grand Old Man of India," was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. He was the first Indian to be elected to the British House of Commons and a key figure in the Indian National Congress. In 1906, at the Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress, he called for Swaraj, or self-government, for India.
Explanation: Dadabhai Naoroji, a key figure in the Indian independence movement, was a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress. He was known for his advocacy of Indian rights and his efforts to secure greater autonomy for India from British rule. In 1906, at the Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress, Naoroji made a significant call for Swaraj, which means self-government or self-rule in Sanskrit.
The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, was a political party that played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. It was a platform for Indian leaders to voice their concerns and demands to the British government. The Calcutta session of 1906 was a pivotal moment in the history of the Indian National Congress, as it marked a shift towards more radical demands for political autonomy.
Dadabhai Naoroji's call for Swaraj was a response to the growing discontent among Indians with the British colonial rule. The demand for self-government was a significant step towards the eventual goal of complete independence from British rule. Naoroji's call for Swaraj was not just a political demand but also a cultural and social movement that aimed to empower Indians and promote their rights and interests.
It is important to note that the Indian National Congress held many sessions throughout its history, and each session had its own significance. The Calcutta session of 1906 was particularly significant because it was the first time that a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress called for Swaraj. This demand for self-government was a turning point in the Indian independence movement and set the stage for future demands and actions towards independence.
Understanding the context and significance of the Calcutta session of 1906 is crucial for comprehending the evolution of the Indian independence movement. It is also important to recognize the contributions of leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, who played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of India during the colonial period.