Indian National Congress- History, Session, President List

Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most prominent political parties in India. Established in 1885, the INC played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. The party was founded during a session of the Indian National Congress held in Bombay (now Mumbai), to obtain a greater share in government for educated Indians.

Indian National Congress History

The history of the Indian National Congress (INC) is deeply intertwined with India’s struggle for independence and the subsequent development of its political landscape. Here are the key milestones in the history of the Indian National Congress:

• Formation (1885): The Indian National Congress was founded on December 28, 1885, during a session held in Bombay (now Mumbai). A.O. Hume, a retired British civil servant, played a crucial role in its formation. The early leaders, including Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, and others, aimed to create a platform for political dialogue and representation of Indian interests.
• Early Years (1885-1905): In its initial years, the INC focused on constitutional reforms, advocating for Indian representation in government and addressing socio-economic issues. Dadabhai Naoroji served as the president in 1886, becoming the first Indian to hold this position.
• Moderates and Extremists (1905-1919): The INC witnessed a shift in its approach with the emergence of two factions – the Moderates and the Extremists. While leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale advocated for constitutional methods, extremists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal favored more assertive measures.
• Gandhi’s Entry and Non-Cooperation (1920s): Mahatma Gandhi’s entry into the Congress marked a turning point. His philosophy of non-violent civil disobedience and mass mobilization gained prominence. The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was a major campaign led by Gandhi, urging Indians to withdraw support from British institutions.
• Civil Disobedience and Quit India (1930s-1940s): The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934) and the Quit India Movement (1942) were significant phases in the struggle for independence. The INC, led by leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel, played a crucial role in these movements.
• Independence and Partition (1947): India gained independence on August 15, 1947, and the INC played a key role in the negotiations for independence. The country was partitioned into India and Pakistan. Jawaharlal Nehru became the first Prime Minister of independent India.
• Post-Independence Period: The INC remained the dominant political force in India for several decades after independence. Leaders like Indira Gandhi, Nehru’s daughter, held significant positions. The party changed, splitting into different factions at times.
• Political Challenges and Transformations (Late 20th Century): The INC faced challenges, including periods of opposition rule and internal divisions. It transformed, adapting to changing political dynamics, and participated in coalition governments.
• 21st Century: In the 21st century, the INC continued to be a major political player in India, participating in national and state elections. It faced competition from emerging political forces, and its performance varied across different electoral cycles.

The Indian National Congress has played a crucial role in shaping the political, social, and economic trajectory of modern India. Its history reflects the diversity of ideologies within the party and its central role in the struggle for India’s independence.

Indian National Congress President List

The list of Indian National Congress (INC) Presidents shows us the leaders who have guided the party since it started in 1885. From the beginning with Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee to later leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi, each president has played an important role. This list helps us see how the INC has been part of India’s history, from the fight for independence to the present day, adapting to changes in the country’s politics. Each leader in the list has left their mark on the party and its role in India.

Founder of Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded by A.O. Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, Monomohun Ghose, William Wedderburn, Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, Monomohun Ghose, Dadabhai Naoroji, William Wedderburn, and others. Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee served as the first President of the Indian National Congress during its inaugural session in 1885 held in Bombay (now Mumbai). The party was formed to obtain a greater share of government for educated Indians and advocate for political representation

Indian National Congress Session

The Indian National Congress was started by Allan Octavian Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, and Dinshaw Edulji Wacha on 28 December 1885. This information is important for the UPSC Mains exam. The table below shows the different meetings of the Indian National Congress and who led each one, which is useful for the civil services exam.

First President of Indian National Congress

Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was the first President of the Indian National Congress, serving during its inaugural session in 1885 in Bombay. A distinguished barrister, he laid the foundation for the INC as a platform for political expression and representation of Indian interests. Bonnerjee advocated constitutional methods for Indian participation in governance, setting the tone for subsequent leaders in the party. His presidency marked a crucial step in India’s political awakening and its journey toward self-governance.

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