Nationalism in India

Question 1

What is Satyagraha?

Accepted Answer

Satyagraha is a method of mass agitation based on the idea of the power of truth and non-violence, emphasising that a true cause can be won without physical force by appealing to the conscience of the oppressor. Mahatma Gandhi introduced it in India.

Question 2

When and why was the Rowlatt Act passed?

Accepted Answer

The Rowlatt Act was passed in 1919; it gave the government enormous powers to repress political activities and allowed detention of political prisoners without trial for two years.

Question 3

What happened at Jallianwala Bagh?

Accepted Answer

On 13 April 1919 General Dyer opened fire on a peaceful crowd gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, killing hundreds; it was to create a feeling of terror and awe among Indians.

Question 4

When was the Non-Cooperation Movement launched and by whom?

Accepted Answer

It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 (accepted at the Nagpur Congress session in December 1920).

Question 5

What was the Khilafat issue?

Accepted Answer

The Khilafat movement was launched in 1919 by Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali to defend the temporal powers of the Ottoman Sultan (Caliph); Gandhi supported it to bring Hindus and Muslims together.

Sample questions