Question

Who were the moderates? How did they propose to struggle against British rule?

Answer 1

Hint:In the first twenty years of its existence, the congress was ‘moderate’ in its objectives and methods. The Congress leaders of this period were known as the moderates. They planned to struggle against British rule in a non-violent manner which the radicals called politics of petitions. They were aware of the power of the British rule in India.

Complete answer:
The moderates were aware of the might of the British rule in India and wanted to protect the youth of India from the batons and guns of British. The demands of the moderates were to reduce the taxes levied on Indians, conducting the Indian Civil Services exams simultaneously in India and England and appointing Indians in the higher echelons of the government apparatus. Major achievements of the moderates were that they sowed the seeds of nationalism and spirit of unity among the Indians. They brought political consciousness by educating Indians. They instilled self-confidence among the people. Moderates believed that the British had respect for the ideals of freedom and justice. They would definitely accept just all the demand of the people of India. Their main job was to acknowledge the British government with these demands. The moderates also published many articles in the newspapers and journals highlighting the increasing poverty of the country under the British rule.

Note:The moderate leaders developed public awareness about the unjust nature of British rule. They published newspapers, wrote articles and showed how British rule was leading to the economic devastation of the country. They blame British rule in their speeches and send representatives to different parts of the country to gather public opinion.