Mahatma Gandhi gave the call 'Do or Die' During Which Movement?
VerifiedAnswer: Quit India Movement
Explanation:
Mahatma Gandhi gave his famous "Do or Die" call during the Quit India Movement in 1942. This powerful slogan became the rallying cry for one of the most significant mass movements in India's struggle for independence from British rule.
The Quit India Movement was launched on August 8, 1942, at the All India Congress Committee session in Mumbai. Gandhi delivered a historic speech at the Gowalia Tank Maidan (now called August Kranti Maidan), where he urged Indians to follow the mantra of "Do or Die" in their fight for freedom. He said, "Here is a mantra, a short one, that I give you. You may imprint it on your hearts and let every breath of yours give expression to it. The mantra is: 'Do or Die.' We shall either free India or die in the attempt."
The timing of this movement was crucial as it came during World War II when Britain was fighting against the Axis powers. Gandhi and the Indian National Congress demanded immediate independence from British rule, refusing to support Britain in the war without India's consent. The British government, however, was not ready to grant independence during wartime.
The "Do or Die" call inspired millions of Indians to participate in the movement with unprecedented enthusiasm. The slogan represented Gandhi's determination and his belief that this would be the final push for independence. It conveyed the message that Indians should be prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for their motherland's freedom.
The British response to the Quit India Movement was swift and severe. Within hours of Gandhi's speech, the entire Congress leadership, including Gandhi himself, was arrested and imprisoned. Despite this, the movement continued with great vigor across the country. Students, workers, peasants, and people from all walks of life participated in strikes, protests, and acts of civil disobedience.
The movement witnessed both peaceful protests and some instances of violence. Railway stations were attacked, telegraph lines were cut, and government buildings were targeted. The British government responded with harsh suppression, leading to thousands of arrests and casualties. Despite the immediate failure to achieve independence, the Quit India Movement significantly weakened British authority in India and demonstrated the country's unwavering desire for freedom.
The "Do or Die" slogan became immortal in Indian history and continues to inspire people even today. It symbolized the spirit of sacrifice, determination, and patriotism that ultimately led to India's independence on August 15, 1947, just five years after this historic call was given.
