India’s rich history is marked by centuries of struggle, bravery, and sacrifice. From the Revolt of 1857 to the formation of the Constitution, every event played a vital role in shaping modern India. For students preparing for entrance exams like Sainik School, Navodaya Vidyalaya, and Prayas School, understanding these key events not only builds knowledge but also deepens their connection to the nation's past. Let’s explore the most important milestones in India’s freedom movement and the birth of its Constitution.
📜 A. Indian Freedom Struggle (Key Events)
1. 1857 – The First War of Independence (Revolt of 1857)
- Also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or Revolt of 1857.
- Led by Mangal Pandey (Barrackpore), Rani Lakshmi Bai, Bahadur Shah Zafar, Tantia Tope.
- Causes: Use of greased cartridges, annexation policies, and poor treatment of Indian soldiers.
- Result: British East India Company rule ended; British Crown took direct control.
2. 1885 – Formation of Indian National Congress (INC)
- Founded by A.O. Hume in Bombay.
- Initially aimed at polite reform and cooperation with the British.
- Became the main platform for India’s freedom movement.
3. 1905 – Partition of Bengal
- Done by Lord Curzon for administrative reasons (claimed), but actually to divide Hindus and Muslims.
- Gave rise to Swadeshi Movement (boycott of British goods).
- Cancelled in 1911 due to mass protests.
4. 1919 – Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
- On April 13, 1919, General Dyer ordered British troops to fire on peaceful protesters in Amritsar.
- Hundreds killed; marked a turning point in Indian politics.
5. 1920 – Non-Cooperation Movement
- Led by Mahatma Gandhi.
- Indians boycotted British schools, goods, titles, and courts.
- Called off in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident (violence).
6. 1930 – Civil Disobedience Movement
- Started with the Dandi March (Salt March) from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi.
- Protest against salt tax.
- Mass civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes.
7. 1942 – Quit India Movement
- Launched by Gandhi with slogan "Do or Die".
- Mass protests demanding British to leave India immediately.
- Many leaders jailed (including Nehru and Gandhi).
8. 1947 – Independence of India
- India gained freedom from British rule on 15 August 1947.
- Partitioned into India and Pakistan.
- First Prime Minister: Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Last British Viceroy: Lord Mountbatten.
📘 B. Constitution of India – Key Facts
1. Drafting of the Constitution
- Drafted by the Constituent Assembly formed in 1946.
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
- Took 2 years, 11 months, 18 days to complete.
2. Adoption & Enactment
- Adopted: 26 November 1949
- Came into force: 26 January 1950 (celebrated as Republic Day).
3. Important Features of the Constitution
- Lengthiest written constitution in the world.
- Includes Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, Directive Principles.
- Based on values of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
4. Fundamental Rights (6 Main Rights)
- Right to Equality
- Right to Freedom
- Right against Exploitation
- Right to Freedom of Religion
- Cultural and Educational Rights
- Right to Constitutional Remedies
5. Key People Involved
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar – Architect of the Constitution
- Rajendra Prasad – First President of India
- Jawaharlal Nehru – Introduced the Objective Resolution
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – Integrated princely states into India
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