Indian Independence Movement Basics

Which of the following actions did Gandhi take to support Indian Independence? A) Violent protests B) Hunger strikes C) Writing novels D) Joining the British army.

• Violent protests

• Hunger strikes

• Writing novels

• Joining the British army.

Answer explanation

Gandhi supported Indian Independence primarily through non-violent means, including hunger strikes, which he used to protest against injustices and mobilize public support. The other options do not align with his philosophy.

Which country did Gandhi work in before returning to India?

• United States

• South Africa

• Australia

• Canada

Answer explanation

Gandhi worked in South Africa from 1893 to 1914, where he developed his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. This experience was crucial before he returned to India to lead the independence movement.

What was the main reason for the Amritsar Massacre?

• A protest against British taxes

• A celebration of a spring festival

• A ban on public gatherings

• A military parade

Answer explanation

The Amritsar Massacre occurred in response to a ban on public gatherings, which led to a large crowd assembling at Jallianwala Bagh to protest. The British troops opened fire on the unarmed crowd, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

Which Indian leader called for a general strike in response to the Rowlatt Acts?

• Jawaharlal Nehru

• Mahatma Gandhi

• Subhas Chandra Bose

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Answer explanation

Mahatma Gandhi called for a general strike in response to the Rowlatt Acts in 1919, mobilizing widespread opposition against repressive colonial laws and advocating for non-violent resistance.

What event marked a turning point in India's modern history?

• The signing of the Rowlatt Act

• The Amritsar Massacre

• The end of World War I

• The beginning of World War II

Answer explanation

The Amritsar Massacre in 1919 was a pivotal event that galvanized Indian nationalism and opposition to British rule, leading to widespread protests and the eventual push for independence, marking a significant turning point in India's modern history.

What was the British government's response to the end of World War I regarding Indian political autonomy?

• They granted full independence

• They increased repressive measures

• They provided economic aid

• They ignored the issue

Answer explanation

After World War I, the British government responded to Indian demands for autonomy by increasing repressive measures, exemplified by the Rowlatt Act of 1919, which restricted civil liberties and led to widespread unrest.

What was the British law that Gandhi defied during the Salt March?

• Taxation law

• Salt law

• Trade law

• Land law

Answer explanation

Gandhi defied the Salt law during the Salt March, which imposed a tax on salt production and sales. This act of civil disobedience was a key moment in the Indian independence movement, highlighting the unjust nature of British laws.

What was the role of Jawaharlal Nehru in India's independence?

• He was a freedom fighter

• He was the first Prime Minister of India

• He was a British official

• He was a religious leader.

Answer explanation

Jawaharlal Nehru played a crucial role in India's independence as a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress and became the first Prime Minister of India after independence in 1947, shaping the nation's future.

Which statement best explains why India was partitioned in 1947?

• The British feared a united India

• One region wanted to remain under British control

• Religious differences led to political division

• Communist supporters wanted a separate state

Answer explanation

The partition of India in 1947 was primarily driven by religious differences, leading to significant political divisions between Hindus and Muslims, ultimately resulting in the creation of India and Pakistan.

The purpose of Mohandas Gandhi’s actions such as the Salt March and the textile boycott was to

• begin a cycle of armed revolution

• draw attention to critical issues

• increase the strength of the military

• resist the power of religious leaders

Answer explanation

Gandhi's actions, like the Salt March and textile boycott, aimed to draw attention to critical issues such as British colonial rule and economic exploitation, rather than promoting violence or military strength.