The Home Rule Movement: The Background
The Home Rule Movement in India launched in 1916 was a significant milestone in the countries struggle against British colonialism. This movement aim at achieving self governance within the British empire by all constitutional means. The cause of the movement was multifaceted and compassing political, social and international factors. The immediate political cause of the movement was the dissatisfaction of the Indian with British government. This prompted the leader like Tilak and Mrs. Annie Beasant to advocate Home Rule as a means to achieve self governance and greater autonomy. The international context of early 20th century particularly the I world War had a significant impact on the Home Rule Movement. The war exposed the threats of European colonialism. It cost immense loss to the Indians. It inspire the Indian masses and leaders to raise the demands for freedom. Tilak's return to the active politics after 6 years of imprisonment and his alliance with Mrs. Annie Beasant provided a significant ground for the launched of movement. Their effort to mobilize public opinion through newspaper, pamphlets and public meetings was crucial in spreading Home Rule message across India. It was during the movement that Tilak got the Lokmanya and he said "Swaraj is my birth right and I shall have it".