General Knowledge

Freedom Movement Questions

Chapter: History | Total Available: 37 Real Questions

Question 1 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

 The Khudai Khidmatgar (Servants of the God)was organized by

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option B is correct. The Khudai Khidmatgar was organized by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Khudai Khidmatgar, also known as the "Servants of God", was primarily a social and political movement in British India founded by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, who was an advocate for nonviolence and tribal unity among Pashtuns.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  • In 1929, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan founded the Khilafat Movement, which later transformed into the Khudai Khidmatgar.
  • The movement aimed to unite the Pashtun community against British rule through nonviolent protest, establishing a "Red Shirt" brigade.
  • By the 1930s, it gained significant traction, advocating for civil rights and self-rule.
  • Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan is also referred to as "Badshah Khan" and the "Frontier Gandhi" due to his dedication to Gandhi's principles of nonviolence.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Mahatma Gandhi -Leader of the Indian independence movement, but not associated with the Khudai Khidmatgar.
  • C: M. A. Jinnah - Founder of Pakistan, focused on separate political identity rather than a non-violent movement.
  • D: M. M. Malaviya - Not directly connected to the Khudai Khidmatgar, known for educational reforms and Hindu nationalism.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember "Ghaffar = Ghandhi" for the link between Abdul Ghaffar Khan's nonviolent approach and Gandhi's philosophy, enabling easy recall.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Laxmikanth's *Indian Polity*, and historical texts on the Indian National Movement.

Question 2 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Who among the following presided over the first session of All India Kisan Sabha in Lucknow in April 1936?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option A is correct. Swami Sahajananda Saraswati presided over the first session of the All India Kisan Sabha.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The All India Kisan Sabha, formed in 1936, was a pivotal organization advocating for farmers' rights in India.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  • April 1936: First session of All India Kisan Sabha held in Lucknow.
  • Presided by Swami Sahajananda Saraswati, a key figure for peasant rights.
  • Objectives included advocating for land reforms and the abolition of zamindari.
  • Significantly contributed to India's organized peasant movement.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • B: R. G. Ranga - Prominent peasant leader, not the presiding officer in 1936.
  • C: Ram Manohar Lohia - Political leader but not directly associated with the Kisan Sabha's formation.
  • D: Jayaprakash Narayan - Influential in social reforms but not linked to the 1936 event.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember the phrase: "Sahasra for Sahajananda, First Kisan Sabha." This mnemonic links "Sahasra" to "Sahajananda," helping recall his role in the significant event.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Laxmikanth's Indian Polity and Spectrum's Modern History.

Question 3 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Which of the following statements about the Home Rule League are correct?

1. Lokamanya Tilak set up the Home Rule League at the Bombay Provincial Confer-ence held at Belgaum in April 1916

2. Annie Besant announced the formation of Home Rule League in September 1916

3. To avoid friction, Tilak’s League was towork in Maharashtra (excluding Bombaycity), Karnataka, Central Provinces and Be-rar, and Besant’s League was given chargeof the rest of India

Select the answer using the code given below:

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. All statements about the Home Rule League are true.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Home Rule League was a significant movement in the Indian freedom struggle, primarily led by Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant. It aimed to secure self-governance and represent Indian interests.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  • Establishment: The Home Rule League was founded by Lokamanya Tilak at the Bombay Provincial Conference in Belgaum in April 1916.
  • Annie Besant's Role: Besant announced the formation of her Home Rule League in September 1916.
  • Operational Areas: To prevent conflict, Tilak's League focused on Maharashtra (excluding Bombay city), Karnataka, Central Provinces, and Berar, while Besant's League catered to the rest of India.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • Option A: Incorrect, as statement 2 is not true.
  • Option B: Incorrect, as statement 2 is incorrectly represented.
  • Option C: Incorrect, as statement 1 is also true, making this option incomplete.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember the timeline: April 1916 for Tilak's launch and September 1916 for Besant's formation.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Laxmikanth's Indian Polity and Spectrum's Modern History.

Question 4 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Who among the following Sikh Gurus laid the foundation of the Khalsa Panth?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option D is correct. Guru Gobind Singh laid the foundation of the Khalsa Panth.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Khalsa Panth is the collective body of initiated Sikhs, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. It symbolizes the commitment to equality, courage, and justice.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  • 1699: Guru Gobind Singh organized the first gathering at Anandpur Sahib.
  • Initiation Ceremony: Followers received Amrit, marking their formal entry into the Khalsa.
  • Principles Established: Equality, fraternity, and dedication to righteousness were core tenets.
  • Symbolism: The Khalsa became known as the "saint-soldier," prepared to defend the faith.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • Option A - Guru Nanak: The first Guru, he laid spiritual foundations but did not form the Khalsa.
  • Option B - Guru Arjan: Compiled the Adi Granth, but not associated with Khalsa formation.
  • Option C - Guru Hargobind: Introduced martial aspects but founded nothing equivalent to the Khalsa.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember: GGBN - Guru Gobind Singh for Khalsa, Birth represented by Nanak.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against "History of the Sikhs" by Khushwant Singh and Sikh scriptures.

Question 5 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Which of the following statements about the Deccan Riots Commission is/are correct?

(1) The Commission did not hold enquiries in the districts which were not affected.

(2) The Commission did record the statements of ryots, sahukars and eye-witnesses.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (b) is correct. The Commission did record statements from various stakeholders.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Deccan Riots Commission was established in 1875 to investigate the causes of the farmers' revolts in the Deccan region of India against moneylenders and grain dealers.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

- **Background**: The riots stemmed from severe agrarian distress due to high taxes, crop failures, and exploitative practices by moneylenders. - **Establishment**: The Government of Bombay set up the Commission under pressure from the British Government to conduct a thorough investigation. - **Inquiry Scope**: The Commission exclusively scrutinized affected districts, thereby not engaging with those that were unaffected (validating statement 1). - **Testimonies**: Throughout its investigations, the Commission collected a variety of testimonies from ryots (farmers), sahukars (moneylenders), and eyewitnesses, confirming statement 2. - **Report Findings**: In 1878, the Commission submitted its findings, which revealed systemic issues in the agrarian structure and offered recommendations.

πŸ” Option Analysis

- **Statement 1**: Correct; the Commission focused only on the districts affected by riots. - **Statement 2**: Correct; documentation included statements from various affected stakeholders. - **Options A & D**: Incorrect as both statements are accurate; therefore, they cannot be chosen.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

To remember the timeline: **1875** (Riots) βž” **Commission Set Up** βž” **1878** (Report Submission). Use the mnemonic **β€œRCS: Riots, Commission, Submission”** to recall.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against historical records and secondary literature on the Deccan Riots, including the Deccan Riots Report presented to the British Parliament.

Question 6 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Where and when did Mahatma Gandhi make his first public appearance in India on coming back from South Africa after two decades?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (c) is correct. Mahatma Gandhi made his first public appearance in India at Banaras Hindu University.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The question pertains to Mahatma Gandhi's return to India after a two-decade stay in South Africa and his initial public engagement. This significant event played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  1. Gandhi returned to India on January 9, 1915, after 21 years in South Africa.
  2. His first public lecture occurred on February 6, 1916, at Banaras Hindu University, marking it as a significant moment in his political career.
  3. In the same year, he later met Jawaharlal Nehru for the first time on December 26 during the Lucknow Congress.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Champaran in 1917 - Gandhi led a movement to address the grievances of indigo farmers here but it was not his first appearance.
  • B: Lucknow in 1916 - Though significant, it was not his first public lecture post-return.
  • C: Banaras Hindu University in 1916 - This is the correct option, marking his first public engagement.
  • D: Ahmedabad in 1918 - Related to his later movements but not his initial return event.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember the sequence: Return in 1915 β†’ First Lecture in 1916 (BHU) β†’ Lucknow Congress in 1916. Mnemonic: "Return, Lecture, Congress" (RLC).

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against "Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography" by D.G. B. Kalra and historical records of Indian independence.

Question 7 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

When and where was the demand for Purna Swaraj or complete independence made by the Indian National Congress?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option B is correct. The demand for Purna Swaraj was made in Lahore in 1929.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Indian National Congress formally adopted the demand for Purna Swaraj (complete independence) at its session in Lahore.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

  • December 1929: The Indian National Congress session held in Lahore.
  • 31st December 1929: Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag.
  • 1st January 1930: Resolution for Complete Independence passed during the session.
  • 26th January 1930: Observed as Independence Day, with citizens across India taking the pledge for independence.

πŸ” Option Analysis

  • A: Bombay, 1885: The first session of the Congress, focused on moderate reforms, not independence.
  • C: Kheda, 1917: Related to Kheda Satyagraha under Gandhi, but not about Purna Swaraj.
  • D: Bombay, 1942: Related to the Quit India Movement, but the resolution for Purna Swaraj was earlier.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember "Lahore 1929 - Purna Swaraj" to associate the location and year with the demand for complete independence.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against Spectrum for Modern History, Chapter on the Indian National Movement.

Question 8 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Which of the following statements about Mahatma Gandhis anti-untouchability camp- aign is/are correct?

1. The All India Harijan Sevak Sangh was founded for this purpose.

2. The campaign was to root out untouchability, since it did not enjoy the sanction of the Hindu shastras.

 Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option C is correct. Both statements about Mahatma Gandhi's anti-untouchability campaign are accurate.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The anti-untouchability campaign led by Mahatma Gandhi aimed to abolish the social stigma associated with untouchability in India, rooted in caste discrimination.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

1. **All India Harijan Sevak Sangh**: Established by Gandhi in 1932, this organization was intended to uplift the Harijans (now referred to as Dalits) and combat the social injustice of untouchability.

2. **Campaign Rationalization**: Gandhi argued that untouchability had no legitimate sanction in the Hindu scriptures (Shastras) and should be eradicated for moral and humanistic reasons. He emphasized that even if certain texts seemed to endorse it, they were outdated and contradicted true human values.

πŸ” Option Analysis

Both statements are accurately aligned with Gandhi's principles and practices during his campaigns, affirming that:

  • Statement 1 is true: The formation of the All India Harijan Sevak Sangh was indeed a part of his initiatives.
  • Statement 2 is true: Gandhi's rationale questioned the religious basis for untouchability, advocating for its rejection based on ethical grounds.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

To recall Gandhi’s efforts against untouchability, remember the mnemonic "HARIT" - Harijans (Dalits), Abolished (untouchability), Reform Movement, Initiated (by Gandhi), Truth (as a guiding principle).

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against "India's Struggle for Independence" by Bipan Chandra and "Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography".

Question 9 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

Which one of the following statements about the ishtahars issued during the Revolt of 1857 is correct?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option B is correct. The ishtahars emphasized the importance of unity among various communities during the Revolt of 1857.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was characterized by a resistance against British colonial rule where various social, religious, and cultural elements were invoked to unify diverse Indian communities.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

- **Context of the Revolt**: The uprising was fueled by widespread dissatisfaction amidst sepoys and local leaders against British policies. - **Nature of Ishtahars**: Issued mainly by the leaders of the revolt, these proclamations called for a united front among Hindus and Muslims, reflecting the Mughal legacy of communal harmony. - **Prominent Figures**: Bahadur Shah II was a crucial figure symbolizing unity, urging people across religious lines to fight against British oppression.

πŸ” Option Analysis

- **A**: Incorrect, as while some statements may reference Islamic rule, the broader appeal was for unity across communities. - **B**: Correct, the ishtahars explicitly promoted the co-existence of different religious communities under the Mughal Empire. - **C**: Incorrect because while Islam was mentioned, the focus was on unity, not glorification. - **D**: Incorrect, as the role of Queen Victoria was not celebrated in the context of the revolt.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Polity Mnemonic

Remember the acronym **"MUC"** for Mughal Unity Call to encapsulate the essence of the rebels' message during the Revolt of 1857: **M**ughal heritage, **U**nity among religions, **C**oexistence.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against "Spectrum's A Brief History of Modern India".

Question 10 of 10 Authentic UPSC NDA Question

The Azamgarh Proclamation of August 25, 1857 stressed on which one of the following issues ?

Step-by-Step Logic & Solution

Correct Answer

βœ“ Option (A) is correct. The Azamgarh Proclamation emphasized the Hindu-Muslim unity against British colonial rule.

πŸ“– Core Anchor Concept

The Azamgarh Proclamation, issued on August 25, 1857, during the Indian Rebellion, primarily addressed the need for unity among Hindus and Muslims against British oppression. It sought to enlist support from both communities to restore the Mughal Empire.

πŸ“œ Detailed Breakdown & Chronology

The key aspects include:

  • Call for unity: Focusing on the importance of Hindu-Muslim solidarity.
  • Restoration of Badshahi: Advocated the reinstatement of the Mughal ruler.
  • Constitutional aspirations: It highlighted the need for a collaborative effort to regain sovereignty.

πŸ” Option Analysis

Examining other options:

  • Option B: Support to the English Government - Incorrect as the proclamation sought to oppose British rule.
  • Option C: The return of the Badshahi - While invoked, this was secondary to the Hindu-Muslim unity theme.
  • Option D: The imposition of heavy Jumas - Incorrect; the focus was on unity and liberation, not taxation.

⚑ Chronology Trick / Historical Mnemonic

To recall the events, use the mnemonic "Unity Restores Power" to emphasize the call for Hindu-Muslim cooperation during the 1857 rebellion.

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference

πŸ“– Factual Verification & Reference:

Verified against "Modern India" by Bipan Chandra and NCERT History textbooks on the Revolt of 1857.

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