C. Formative Phase (1885-1905)
After 1857, the Indian freedom struggle entered a new phase with the rise of organized movements driven by nationalistic fervor. The establishment of the Indian National Congress (INC) played a pivotal role in this shift, marking the beginning of a structured political approach to achieving independence.
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Leaders of the Phase
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- Dadabhai Naoroji: often referred to as the ‘Grand Old Man of India,’ was a leading figure in the INC and made history as the first Indian to become a British Member of Parliament. He was among the earliest advocates for ‘Swaraj’, or self-rule, for India, laying the foundation for India’s political aspirations towards independence.
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale: A mentor to Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale was a senior leader of the INC and founder of the Servants of India Society. He advocated for social reforms and was a strong supporter of constitutional means to achieve political self-rule.
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