The Indian National Movement (1857–1947) is one of the most crucial areas in the WBCS Prelims syllabus. This section carries 8–12 marks, and questions are typically based on events, dates, leaders, movements, and Bengal’s contribution.
Understanding India’s struggle for freedom is essential not just for scoring well but also for appreciating the socio-political development of modern India.
Phases of the Indian Freedom Struggle
The Indian National Movement can be divided into three major phases:
| Phase | Time Period | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Early Nationalists (Moderate Phase) | 1885–1905 | Petitions & Reforms |
| Extremist Phase | 1905–1919 | Swadeshi & Boycott |
| Gandhian Era | 1919–1947 | Mass Movements |
