Modern-indian-history / Emergence of Swarajists, Socialist Ideas, Revolutionary Activities and Other New Forces / Revolutionary Activity During the 1920s
Revolutionary Activity During the 1920s
- The sudden end of the Non-Cooperation Movement left numerous people disenchanted, leading them to question the fundamental approach of the nationalist leaders. Since they were not attracted to the parliamentary efforts of the Swarajists or the patient and constructive work of the No-changers, these younger nationalists were inclined towards the belief that only violent methods could liberate India. Consequently, there was a revival of revolutionary terrorism.
Background of Revolutionary Activities During the 1920s
- The frustration stemming from the perceived failure of the early twentieth-century political struggle, combined with government repression, set the stage for the emergence of revolutionary terrorism.
- The Rise of Revolutionary Terrorism: Revolutionary terrorists believed that passive resistance alone could not accomplish nationalist objectives, leading them to adopt a strategy centred around the use of bombs.
- Repression during World War I: The First World War brought about severe repressive measures against revolutionary terrorists, resulting in a setback for their movement.
- Release of Prisoners: The government released many revolutionary terrorists from prisons in the late 1919 and early 1920s, aiming to create a favourable environment for the Montagu reforms. It was during this time that the Non-Cooperation Movement was initiated in 1920.
- Gandhi's Influence: Influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi and C.R. Das met with several leaders of revolutionary terrorism, urging them to join the nonviolent mass movement or at least cease their activities.
- Transition and Disappointment: Recognizing the advent of a new political era, many revolutionary leaders attended the National Congress session in Nagpur and aligned themselves with the Congress. However, the abrupt suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement in early 1922, triggered by the Chauri-Chaura incident, caused disillusionment and discontent among the movement's young participants.
- Return to Violence: Disillusioned with Gandhi's leadership and the perceived simplicity of nonviolent strategies, many participants turned back to the idea of violently overthrowing British rule. They drew inspiration from revolutionary movements and uprisings in countries like Russia, Ireland, Turkey, Egypt, and China.
- The Emergence of New Leaders: Alongside the resurrection of older revolutionary organizations, a new generation of leaders emerged from the ranks of enthusiastic non-cooperators, stepping into the role of revolutionary terrorists.
