Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 108

Who became leader of the Indian National Congress in 1920?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the Indian National Congress in the early 20th century.

Correct Answer: B) Mahatma Gandhi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Indian National Congress (INC) was a political party that played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British rule. The party was founded in 1885 and initially focused on the political representation of educated Indians. However, by the early 20th century, the INC began to adopt a more radical stance, advocating for complete independence from British rule.

In 1920, Mahatma Gandhi became the leader of the Indian National Congress. Gandhi's leadership marked a significant shift in the party's approach to achieving independence. He introduced the concept of non-violent civil disobedience, which became a cornerstone of the Indian independence movement. Gandhi's leadership was characterized by his ability to mobilize the masses and unite people from diverse backgrounds under a common cause.

Before Gandhi's leadership, the INC was led by more moderate figures who sought to work within the framework of British rule to achieve greater representation and rights for Indians. However, the party's stance changed dramatically under Gandhi's influence. He emphasized the importance of self-reliance, the boycott of British goods, and the use of non-violent methods to resist British rule. This approach was instrumental in galvanizing the Indian population and creating a widespread movement for independence.

It is important to note that the INC had several leaders over the years, each contributing to the party's evolution and the independence movement. Jawaharlal Nehru, for example, became the President of the INC in 1929 and later served as the first Prime Minister of independent India. Indira Gandhi, Nehru's daughter, also played a significant role in the party's leadership, becoming the President of the INC in 1959 and later serving as the Prime Minister of India.

However, the specific question asks about the leader of the Indian National Congress in 1920, and the correct answer is Mahatma Gandhi. This period marked a crucial turning point in the Indian independence movement, as Gandhi's leadership brought a new dimension to the struggle for freedom, emphasizing non-violent resistance and mass mobilization.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Jawaharlal Nehru did not become the leader of the Indian National Congress in 1920. He became the President of the INC in 1929 and later served as the first Prime Minister of independent India. This option is incorrect because it misplaces Nehru's leadership role in the INC timeline.
  • Option B: Mahatma Gandhi became the leader of the Indian National Congress in 1920, steering the party towards a more radical and mass-based approach to achieving independence from British rule. This option is correct as it accurately reflects the historical context of Gandhi's leadership.
  • Option C: King George was the British monarch and not involved in the leadership of the Indian National Congress. This option is incorrect as it confuses the roles of British royalty with Indian political leadership.
  • Option D: Indira Gandhi did not become the leader of the Indian National Congress in 1920. She became the President of the INC in 1959 and later served as the Prime Minister of India. This option is incorrect because it misplaces Indira Gandhi's leadership role in the INC timeline.

Mnemonic: Gandhi's leadership in 1920: G for Gandhi, G for Great

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