GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE Unit 1 Understanding Democratic values: Equality, Liberty, Fraternity, Freedom, Justice, Pluralism, Tolerance, Respect for All, Freedom of Expression, Citizen Participation in Governance - World Democracies: French Revolution, American Independence, Indian Freedom Movement. What is democratic Values? Democratic values are the fundamental principles that underpin democratic societies. These values support the idea of governance that is representative, participatory, and just. They serve as the moral and ethical foundation on which democratic institutions and practices are built. Here are some key democratic values: Equality: All individuals are considered equal under the law, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or socio-economic status. This value emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with the same rights and opportunities. Liberty: This value asserts the right of individuals to freedom of thought, expression, association, and action, as long as they do not infringe upon the rights of others. Liberty includes political, economic, and personal freedoms. Justice: This involves the fair and impartial resolution of disputes, and the equitable distribution of rights, duties, and benefits. It also includes the concept of restorative justice, which aims to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior. Tolerance: This refers to the willingness to accept and respect different views, beliefs, and lifestyles. It is a fundamental aspect of a democratic society that values diversity. Respect for all: Acknowledging and respecting differences in culture, religion, and ideology. This value fosters a society where a variety of perspectives are valued and where conflict is managed peacefully These democratic values are interdependent and reinforce each other, creating a framework for a society where individuals can live with dignity, freedom, and equality. They are essential for maintaining a just and stable democratic system. Equality Equality as a democratic value is essential to ensuring fairness and justice in society. It signifies that everyone is entitled to the same rights, opportunities, and respect, regardless of background, race, religion, gender, or socio-economic status. This principle is deeply rooted in democratic societies and often enshrined in constitutions and human rights declarations worldwide.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE Key Aspects of Equality in Democracy 1. Legal Equality: This involves the principle that all people are equal before the law and that the law should apply equally to all citizens. Itmeans that no person or group is above the law. Everyone enjoys the same legal protections and is subject to the same legal procedures. This includes equal treatment in court and the right to a fair trial. 2. Political Equality: This aspect of equality focuses on ensuring that all citizens have an equal say in the political processes that govern their lives. It includes the right to vote, to stand for election, and to participate in political debate. Political equality is crucial for meaningful democracy, as it ensures that the will of the people is reflected in the governance of the state. 3. Economic Equality: While complete economic equality might not be achievable in practice, democratic societies strive to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to access the resources they need to live a dignified life. This can include access to education, healthcare, employment, and housing. Economic policies are often designed to reduce inequalities and provide a safety net for the most vulnerable. 4, Social Equality: This refers to the equal treatment of individuals in society and the absence of discrimination. It involves ensuring that all people are treated with respect, and dignity, and that they have the same opportunities to participate in social, cultural, and educational activities. Social equality is essential for building cohesive communities where differences are celebrated rather than feared. 5, Equality of Outcome vs. Equality of Opportunity: While equality of opportunity is about providing all individuals with the same starting conditions and access to resources, equality of outcome focuses on the actual results of these opportunities. Democratic societies often debate the balance between these two forms of equality, with some advocating for policies that aim to level outcomes (such as wealth redistribution) and others focusing more on ensuring fair acce: Challenges to Equality Equality as a democratic value faces several challenges in practice. Discrimination, bias, and systemic inequalities can still persist despite legal protections. For instance, gender, racial, and economic disparities can be deeply ingrained in societal structures, making it difficult to achieve true equality. Overcoming these challenges requires ongoing efforts, including education, policy-making, and public discourse, Promoting Equality Promoting equality in a democratic society involves a multifaceted approach. It requires legal frameworks that protect individual rights, policies that address systemic inequalities, education that fosters understanding and respect, and a culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity. Civil society, governmental institutions, and individuals all have a role to play in upholding and advancing the value of equality in democratic societies.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE 1. Temple Entry Proclamation (1936): The Travancore Kingdom (now Kerala) allowed all Hindus, regardless of caste, to enter temples, breaking the traditional caste-based barriers. 2. Lunch Movement (1930s): In Tamil Nadu, the Self-Respect Movement led by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy encouraged people to eat together, regardless of caste or social status, promoting social equality. 3. Women's Education: The ancient university of Takshashila (now in Kerala) had female students and teachers, showcasing gender equality in education. Similarly, the modern-day Kerala governments initiatives like "Kerala Women's Commission" and "Gender Park" promote gender equality 4, Casteless Matrimony: The "Casteless Matrimony" movement in Tamil Nadu encourages inter-caste marriages, challenging traditional caste barriers. 5. Dalit Empowerment: Organizations like the "Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry" (DIC) in Tamil Nadu and Kerala's "Dalit Welfare Department" work towards economic and social empowerment of Dalits. 6. Gender-Neutral Schools: Some schools in South India, like the "Gender-Neutral School" in Kerala, aim to break gender stereotypes and promote equality. 7. Transgender Rights: Tamil Nadu was the first state to establish a "Transgender Welfare Board” (2019), ensuring equal rights and opportunities for transgenders Equality as a democratic value is about ensuring that every individual has the same rights and opportunities, which are essential for a fair, just, and inclusive society. It is a continuous goal that requires vigilance and commitment from all members of society to uphold and advance. Liberty: 1. Freedom of Speech: The Tamil Nadu government's decision to repeal the "Tamil Nadu Prevention of Harassment of Women Act" (2014) after widespread protests, showcasing the power of free speech. Tlustrating the power of freedom of speech: The Story of a Young Activist Ina small town, a young activist named Maya noticed that the local government was planning to build a new industrial plant on the outskirts of town, which would pollute the nearby river and harm the environment. Maya was concerned about the impact on her community's health and the ec: Maya decided to speak out against the project, using her freedom of speech to raise awareness and mobilize opposition. She wrote articles in the local newspaper, gave interviews on radio and TV, and organized public protests and rallies.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE The Power of Freedom of Speech Through her efforts, Maya was able to: Inform citizens about the potential dangers of the project - Build a coalition of concerned citizens, local businesses, and environmental groups - Pressure the local government to reconsider the project Eventually, the government withdrew their plans for the industrial plant, and the town was saved from potential environmental disaster Key Points - Maya's freedom of speech allowed her to express her concerns and mobilize others - Her efforts led to a change in government policy, protecting the environment and public health - This example illustrates the power of freedom of speech in promoting accountability, transparency, and positive change 2. Artistic Expression: The vibrant film industry in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, produces movies that often tackle social and political issues, demonstrating freedom of expression Ilustrating the power of artistic expression in the Tamil film industry: The Revolutionary Director In the 1980s, Tamil director K. Balachander made a film called "Agni Sakshi" (1982), which tackled the sensitive topic of dowry harassment, The film's protagonist, a young woman, is subjected to physical and emotional abuse by her husband and in-laws for not bringing enough dowry. * Breaking Taboos Through "Agni Sakshi", Balachander: - Highlighted the dark reality of dowry harassment in Tamil society - Sparked conversations and debates about women's rights and gender equality - Inspired other filmmakers to address social issues in their work © Impact on Society The film's impact was significant: - It helped raise awareness about dowry harassment and its consequences - It contributed to changes in Tamil Nadu’s laws and policies related to dowry and women's rights - Tt paved the way for future generations of filmmakers to tackle tough social issuesGE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE © Key Points - Balachander's film used artistic expression to shed light on a critical social issue ~ The film sparked important conversations and contributed to positive change - This example showcases the power of artistic expression in the Tamil film industry to inspire and drive social change 3. Religious Freedom: The ancient city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, home to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, allows people of all religions to worship and participate in festivals, promoting religious liberty 4, LGBTQ+ Rights: The 2019 "Chennai Pride March’ and the "Kochi Pride Walk (2020) in Kerala, demonstrating the struggle for equal rights and freedom for the LGBTQ+ community. 5, Student Protests: The student-led protests against the "Citizenship Amendment Act" (CAA) and "National Register of Citizens" (NRC) in universities like Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and University of Hyderabad, exemplifying freedom of assembly and expression, Illustrating the impact of student protests: © The Voice of Change In 2017, students at the University of Chennai led a protest against the government's decision to impose Hindi as a compulsory language in schools. The students, led by a young woman named Priya, argued that this move would undermine the importance of Tamil language and culture, + Demanding Justice Through their protests, the students: - Organized rallies, marches, and sit-ins to raise awareness about the issue - Used social media to mobilize support and spread their message - Engaged in peaceful debates with government officials to present their case * Victory for the Students The government eventually withdrew its decision, recognizing the students! concerns. The protest's success demonstrated the power of student activism in shaping policy and promoting linguistic diversity + Key Points - Student protests can bring about significant change and hold those in power accountable - The University of Chennai students! protest protected the importance of Tamil language and cultureGE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE - This example showcases the impact of student activism in India 6. Press Freedom: The active and vocal media in South India, like "The Hindu" and "The News Minute’, that report on social and political issues without fear of censorship. 7. Personal Choices: The prevalence of inter-religious marriages and the increasing acceptance of live-in relationships in urban South India, reflecting individual liberty and freedom of choice. Fraternity: 1. Harmony in Diversity: The city of Kochi in Kerala, where Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexist and celebrate each other's festivals, showeasing unity in diversity. 2. Community Kitchen: The "Annadana' initiative in Tamil Nadu, where volunteers from different backgrounds come together to cook and serve food to the needy, fostering a sense of community. 3, Inter-Faith Dialogues: The "Tamil Nadu Inter-Faith Dialogue" that brings together religious leaders and scholars to promote understanding and peaceful coexistence. 4, Festival Celebrations: The celebration of festivals like Onam (Kerala), Pongal (Tamil Nadu), and Ugadi (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) with people from different backgrounds participating and sharing in the joy. 5, Charitable Initiatives: The "Narayana Health" initiative in Karnataka, which provides free healthcare to the poor, regardless of caste, religion, or social status. 6, Volunteerism: The "Chennai Flood Relief" efforts (2015) that saw people from all walks of life coming together to help those affected by the floods. 7. Cultural Exchange Programs: The "Kerala Arts and Cultural Exchange Program’ that promotes cultural exchange between artists, musicians, and performers from different states and countries. Freedom: © Freedom of Speech: Tamil Nadu's anti-CAA protests (2020): Citizens from various backgrounds gathered to express their dissent against the Citizenship Amendment Act, exercising their right to free speech.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE * Freedom of Assembly: Kerala's "Long March" (2019): Thousands of women marched from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram demanding equal rights and gender justice, showcasing the freedom to assemble peacefully. ‘+ Freedom of Expression: The Tamil film "Jai Bhim' (2021): This movie addressed social issues like casteism and police brutality, exemplifying the freedom to express thoughts and ideas through art + Freedom of Religion: The annual 'Thrissur Pooram' festival in Kerala: This Hindu festival is celebrated with active participation from Muslims and Christians, demonstrating the freedom to practice and celebrate one's religion. ‘+ Freedom of the Press: Tamil Nadu's "The Hindu’ newspaper: This publication is known for its fearless reporting on social and political issues, exercising the freedom of the press. * Freedom of Movement: The "Chennai to Kanyakumari" highway: This highway connects major cities in Tamil Nadu, symbolizing the freedom to move and travel, Pluralism: © Cultural Pluralism: The "Madras Music Season" (Chennai, 2022): This annual festival celebrates Carnatic music, showcasing Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage, while also featuring, artists from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. + Religious Pluralism: The "Kapaleeswarar Temple" (Chennai): This ancient Shiva temple has a shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, highlighting the coexistence of different deities and faiths. + Linguistic Pluralism: Tamil Nadu's "Language Policy" (2020): The state government recognized Tamil, English, and other languages spoken in the state, promoting linguistic diversity and inclusivity © Social Pluralism: The "Transgender Welfare Board" (Tamil Nadu, 2020): This initiative aims to provide support and resources to the transgender community, recognizing their rights and dignity. * Political Pluralism: The "Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)" and "All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) parties: These two major political parties in Tamil Nadu have different ideologies, yet coexist and participate in democratic processes,GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE ‘+ Educational Pluralism: The "University of Madras" (Chennai): This institution offers courses in various languages, including Tamil, English, and Sanskrit, promoting academic diversity Tolerance: «Religious Tolerance: - The "Ajmer Sharif Dargah" in Rajasthan, where Hindus and Muslims worship together, showcasing mutual respect and tolerance. * Cultural Tolerance: - The "Hornbill Festival" in Nagaland, where different tribes and communities come together to celebrate their cultural diversity, promoting cross-cultural understanding and tolerance. * Social Tolerance: - The "Gay Pride Parade" in Mumbai (2019), where people from different sexual orientations and gender identities came together, highlighting tolerance and acceptance, * Political Tolerance: - The "Opposition Parties’ Unity" during the "Anti-CAA Protests! (2020), where parties with differing ideologies united against a common cause, demonstrating tolerance for differing opinions. * Linguistic Tolerance: - The "Multilingual Signage" in public places, such as railway stations and government offices, promoting tolerance and inclusivity for diverse languages. + Regional Tolerance: - The "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative (2013), which aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding between different states and regions, fostering tolerance and national unity. Respect for All: + Respect for Women: - The "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" initiative (2015), which aims to empower and educate girls, promoting respect for their rights and dignity + Respect for Elders: - The "Vriddha Pension Scheme" (2019) in Tamil Nadu, which provides financial assistance to senior citizens, demonstrating respect for their contributions and well- being.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE * Respect for Disabled: = The "Accessible India Campaign" (2015), which aims to make public spaces and infrastructure accessible for people with disabilities, promoting respect for their rights, and inclusivity. + Respect for Minorities: - The "Minority Welfare Schemes’ (2020) in Kerala, which provide educational and economic support to minority communities, showcasing respect for their rights and dignity © Respect for Transgenders: - The "Transgender Welfare Board! (2020) in Tamil Nadu, which provides support and resources for the transgender community, recognizing their rights and dignity + Respect for Environment: + The "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" (2014), which aims to promote cleanliness and environmental conservation, demonstrating respect for the natural world. Citizen Participation in Governance: + Ward Committee Meetings: In Chennai, citizens actively participate in Ward Committee Meetings, influencing decisions on local infrastructure, waste management, and public health. + Gram Sabhas: In Tamil Nadu's rural areas, Gram Sabhas empower citizens to participate in local decision-making, ensuring effective implementation of government schemes, + Citizen-led Initiatives: The "Chennai Flood Relief" efforts (2015) saw citizens coming together to provide aid and support, demonstrating community-led governance. + Right to Information (RTI) Act: A citizen from Coimbatore used RTI to expose corruption in a local government project, leading to the arrest of corrupt officials. © E-Governance Initiatives: Tamil Nadu’s "e-Sevai" platform allows citizens to access government services online, promoting transparency and citizen participation. * Public Interest Litigations (PILs): A PIL filed by a citizen-led organization led to the closure of polluting industries in Tirupur, improving air quality. + Citizen Engagement Forums:GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE The "Chennai Citizen's Forum’ brings together citizens, experts, and officials to discuss and address urban issues, fostering collaborative governance. Justice: 1. Conviction of Jayalalithaa (2014): The former Chief Minister was sentenced to prison. for corruption, demonstrating that no one is above the law. 2, Justice for Manual Scavengers (2019): The Madras High Court ordered the government to provide rehabilitation and compensation to manual scavengers, upholding their right to dignity and justice. 3. Verdict on Cauvery Water Dispute (2018): The Supreme Court's judgment on the Cauvery water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka ensured a fair share of water for both states, exemplifying justice in resource management. 4. Action against Polluters (2020): The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board took action against industries violating environmental norms, ensuring justice for affected communities 5. Justice for Sexual Harassment Victims (2019): The Chennai Police's swift action against perpetrators of sexual harassment, including the arrest of a prominent businessman, demonstrated commitment to justice for victims, 6, Implementation of SC/ST Act (2020): Tamil Nadu's efficient implementation of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act ensured justice for marginalized communities, with prompt arrests and convictions 7. Court Intervention in Temple Entry Issue (2019): The Madras High Court ensured justice for devotees by ordering the government to allow entry to all into the ancient Sabarimala temple, regardless of gender or caste. World Democracies: French Revolution The French Revolution (1789-1799) was a pivotal event in modern history that shaped the course of world democracy. + Causes: 1. Enlightenment ideas: Inspired by thinkers like Rousseau, Voltaire, and Montesquieu, who advocated for liberty, equality, and democracy. 2. Financial crisis: France's deepening debt and economic hardship. Social inequality: The burclen of taxation fell on the commoners, while the nobility and clergy enjoyed privileges.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE © Key events: 1, Storming of the Bastille (july 14, 1789): A symbol of the monarchy's power, its fall marked the beginning of the Revolution. 2. Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (August 1789): Asserted the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity 3. Reign of Terror (1793-1794): Radical Jacobins, led by Maximilien Robespierre, executed thousands perceived as enemies of the Revolution. 4, Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte (1799): A military general who seized power, eventually declaring himself Emperor. © Impact on world democracy: 1. Inspired similar movements: The French Revolution's emphasis on democracy equality, and human rights influenced revolutions in Haiti, Latin America, and Europe. 2. Shaped modern democracy: The Revolution's ideas and principles, such as the separation of powers and universal suffrage, have been adopted by democracies worldwide. 3. End of feudalism: The Revolution marked the beginning of the end of feudalism. and the rise of modern nation-states. 4. Global spread of democratic ideals: The French Revolution's emphasis on liberty equality, and fraternity has inspired democratic movements and ideals globally. «Inspiring similar movements The French Revolution’s emphasis on democracy, equality, and human rights inspired similar movements globally, including: 1. Haitian Revolution (1791-1804): The largest and most successful slave revolt in moder history, leading to Haiti's independence. 2. Latin American wars of independence (1810s-1820s): Simén Bolivar and others led movements for independence from Spain and Portugal, establishing democratic governments. 3. European revolutions (1848): Democratic uprisings swept across Europe, leading to reforms and the establishment of constitutional monarchies. + Shaping moder democracy The French Revolution’'s ideas and principles have been adopted by democracies worldwide, including; 1. Separation of powers: The Revolution's concept of dividing power among, legislative, executive, and judicial branches has been adopted globally. 2. Universal suffrage: The idea of equal voting rights for all citizens has become a comerstone of modern democracy.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE 3. Human rights: The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen's emphasis on individual liberties and protections has inspired human rights movements worldwide. © End of feudalism The French Revolution marked the beginning of the end of feudalism, a system that had dominated Europe for centuries. The Revolution's emphasis on: 1. Equality: Challenged the nobility’s privileges and established the principle of equal rights for all citizens. 2. Individualism: Encouraged personal freedom and autonomy, undermining the feudal system's hierarchical structure. © Global spread of democratic ideals The French Revolutions emphasis on liberty, equality, and fraternity has inspired democratic movements and ideals globally, including: 1. American Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s): Drew on the Revolution's ideals of equality and human rights. 2. Anti-apartheid movement (1940s-1990s): South African activists invoked the Revolution’s principles in their fight against racial inequality 3. Arab Spring (2010s): Protesters across the Middle East and North Africa demanded democratic reforms, echoing the Revolution's call for liberty and equality. The French Revolution's legacy continues to shape world democracy, inspiring movements for human rights, equality, and democratic governance. World Democracies: American Independence The American Independence movement was a pivotal event in modern history, marking the transition of the United States from a British colony to an independent nation. * Causes of the American Independence Movement: 1. Taxation without Representation: The British government imposed various taxes on the American colonies without granting them representation in Parliament 2. Colonial Expansion and Territorial Disputes: British restrictions on westward expansion and territorial disputes fueled tensions between the colonies and Great Britain.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE 3. Enlightenment Ideas: The influence of Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Thomas Paine, and Montesquieu on American colonists emphasized the principles of liberty, democracy, and individual rights. The key events of the American Independence movement: * Boston Massacre (March 5, 1770): - Tensions between British soldiers and American colonists in Boston culminated in a deadly clash. - Five colonists were killed, and six others were wounded, - The event was widely publicized and helped galvanize opposition to British rule. ‘* Boston Tea Party (December 16, 1773): - Colonists disguised as Native Americans boarded three British ships in Boston. Harbor. - They threw 342 chests of tea into the water to protest British taxation policies. - The event became a symbol of resistance against British tyranny. + Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776): - The Continental Congress adopted a formal declaration of independence from Great Britain, - Written by Thomas Jefferson, the document outlined the colonies’ grievances and asserted their right to self-governance. - thas since become one of the most influential documents in modern history. * American Revolutionary War (1775-1783): - The war began with the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775. - Colonists fought against British forces, with France and other European powers providing support. - Key battles included Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, where British General Charles Cornwallis surrendered in 1781 + Saratoga Campaign (September-October 1777): - American forces led by General Horatio Gates defeated the British army at Saratoga, New York. - The victory convinced France to ally with the Americans, providing significant financial and military support. + Valley Forge (December 1777-June 1778):GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE - Washington's Continental Army encamped at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, during a harsh winter. - Despite hardships and desertions, the army emerged stronger and more unified under Washington's leadership. + Yorktown Campaign (September-October 1781): - Washington's forces, assisted by French troops, trapped Cornwallis's army at Yorktown, Virginia. - Cornwallis attempted to escape, but a French naval blockade prevented it. - He surrendered on October 19, 1781, effectively ending the war. ‘+ Treaty of Paris (September 3, 1783): - The British government signed a treaty recognizing American independence. ~The treaty established the boundaries of the United States and marked the beginning, of anew era in American history. Key Figures: 1. George Washington: Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army and first President of the United States. 2. Thomas Jefferson: Principal author of the Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States. 3, John Adams: Early leader in the independence movement, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and second President of the United States. 4, Benjamin Franklin: Renowned statesman, scientist, and diplomat who played a key role in securing French support for the American cause. The American Independence movement's impact on world democracies is profound, demonstrating the power of democratic ideals and the importance of representation, individual rights, and self-governance. World Democracies: Indian Freedom Movement The Indian Freedom Movement was a prolonged and multifaceted struggle for independence from British colonial rule, spanning several decades. Itwasa movement that united Indians from diverse backgrounds and regions, driven by a shared desire for self-rule and freedom from oppression. Causes of the Indian Freedom Movement: 1. Economie Exploitation: British colonial rule led to economic exploitation, draining India's resources and causing widespread poverty.GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE 2. Political Subjugation: Indians were denied political representation, and British officials held all key positions. 3. Cultural Suppression: British rule suppressed Indian culture, language, and traditions. 4. Nationalist Sentiment: Growing nationalist sentiment and desire for self-rule fueled the movement. Key Events and Milestones: 1. Indian Rebellion of 1857: A widespread uprising against British rule, sparked by the introduction of the Enfield rifle. 2. Formation of the Indian National Congress (1885): A platform for Indians to voice their demands and aspirations. 3. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Led by Mahatma Gandhi, a mass movement boycotting British goods and institutions. 4, Salt March (1930): Gandhi's famous march to protest the salt tax, symbolizing resistance against British rule. 5. Quit India Movement (1942): A massive movement demanding immediate independence, led by Gandhi. 6. Indian Independence Act (1947): British Parliament passed the Act, paving the way for Indian independence. The movement gained momentum in the late 19th century, with the formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885. The INC provided a platform for Indians to voice their demands and aspirations, and its early leaders, such as Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, played a significant role in shaping the movement. However, it was Mahatma Gandhi who emerged as the most iconic leader of the movement. Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience inspired a generation of Indians to join the struggle for freedom. His leadership and vision helped to galvanize the movement, and his tactics, such as the Salt March and the Quit India Movement, became legendary. The movementalso saw the emergence of other key leaders, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Bhagat Singh, each contributing their unique perspective and approach to the struggle. The Indian National Army, formed by Bose, and the revolutionary violence advocated by Bhagat Singh, represented alternative strategies to achieve independence. The Indian Freedom Movement was marked by several significant events, including the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt March, and theGE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE Quit India Movement. Each of these events represented a turning pointin the struggl as Indians increasingly asserted their demands for freedom and self-rule. Key Figures: 1. Mahatma Gandhi: A charismatic leader who employed non-violent resistance and civil disobedience Jawaharlal Nehru: A key leader and India's first Prime Minister. Subhas Chandra Bose: A radical leader who formed the Indian National Army. Bhagat Singh: A revolutionary who sacrificed his life for the cause. Lala Lajpat Rai: A prominent leader and founder of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio. Tactics and Strategies: 1, Non-Violent Resistance: Gandhi's philosophy of peaceful protest and civil disobedience. 2, Civil Disobedience: Defying British laws and institutions, 3. Boycotts: Boycotting British goods and services. 4, Revolutionary Violence: Armed resistance, as seen in the Indian National Army. The movement finally achieved its goal on August 15, 1947, when India gained independence from British colonial rule, The Indian Independence Act, passed by the British Parliament, paved the way for the creation of a sovereign Indian nation. The legacy of the Indian Freedom Movement is profound and far-reaching. It inspired freedom movements globally, particularly in Africa and Asia, and shaped India's democratic values and institutions. The movement forged a strong national identity and sense of unity, transcending regional and communal divisions, The Indian Freedom Movement: A Journey to Independence Introduction The Indian Freedom Movement is a saga of resilience, unity, and determination that spans nearly a century, culminating in the independence of India from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947, It is a testament to the power of non-violent resistance and the collective will of a people to seek freedom and justice. This essay delves into the historical events, leaders, and strategies that defined the movement and shaped the modem nation of India. Early Stages and Nationalist Movements (1857-1905) The seeds of the Indian Freedom Movement were sown in the aftermath of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, often referred to as the first war of independence. This uprising was 16GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE a response to the oppressive policies of the British East India Company. The rebellion, while ultimately suppressed, ignited a spirit of resistance in the hearts of Indians. The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, emerged as a platform for demanding, political reforms and greater Indian participation in governance. The early Congress leaders, known as the Moderates, advocated peaceful methods for attaining self-rule. Rise of the Swadeshi Movement (1905-1911) The Swadeshi Movement, a response to the British policy of dividing Bengal in 1905, marked a significant shift in the Indian struggle. It encouraged the boycott of British goods and the promotion of Indian industries and products. This period also saw the emergence of the Extremists within the Congress, who advocated more radical methods to achieve self-rule. ‘World War I and its Impact (1914-1918) India’s support for the British during World War I was significant, and the Indian soldiers played a crucial role on the battlefields. However, the post-war scenario did not bring the promised reforms. The Rowlatt Acts of 1919, which allowed the British to imprison suspects without trial, led to widespread protests and the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amvitsar. This event galvanized the nation, intensifying, the demand for independence. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) The Non-Cooperation Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi, encouraged Indians to renounce all ties with the British and reject British institutions, including schools, courts, and government services. The movement gained widespread support but was later suspended due to violence in Chauri Chaura in 1922. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934) Gandhi's call for the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930 marked another high point in the freedom struggle. The Salt March, where Gandhi and his followers walked 240 miles to the Arabian Sea to make salt in defiance of the British salt tax, became a symbol of the fight against unjust laws. The movement saw widespread participation and a significant escalation in the struggle for independence. World War II and the Quit India Movement (1939-1945) The outbreak of World War II saw a split in the Indian response. While the British government sought India’s support, promising post-war reforms, the Indian National Congress launched the Quit India Movement in 1942, demanding immediate British withdrawal. This movement faced severe repression, with mass arrests and violence by British forces. Final Negotiations and Independence (1946-1947)GE3791 - HUMAN VALUES AND ETHICS MS.B.THYLA,AP_SG/ECE Post-World War Il, the British government was forced to acknowledge India’s demands for independence. The negotiations led by the British, including the Cabinet Mission, failed to achieve a consensus. Ultimately, the Indian Independence Act was passed in July 1947, paving the way for the partition of India and the creation of two independent dominions: India and Pakistan. Conclusion The Indian Freedom Movement is a story of courage and sacrifice, led by visionaries like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose. It is a lesson in the power of non-violent resistance and the importance of unity in achieving a common goal. The movement not only secured India’s independence but also inspired. struggles for freedom across the world. Today, India stands as a vibrant democracy, a testament to the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom.