Question 18GS1GS1
To what extent women participated in different phases of freedom struggle? How did this activism and politicization of women promote a feminist consciousness in colonial India? (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
Introduction
Women participation went through an evolutionary journey in the process, leading to the development of a feminist consciousness in the country.
21 words
Main Body
1Period of 1857: Participation by women was vital in different regions, but it had limited impact on the overall outcome of events of 1857. Eg: Begum Hazrat Mahal = Queen Rahi of Jhansí; Rani Laksmi Swaminathan.
2Indian National Congress (Moderate Phase) → Limited participation by women → Participation by women
(b) Extremist PhaseAnnie Besant led the Home Rule movement, and became the first female president of congress, but the overall participation by women were limited.
(c) Gandhian Phase:
(i) Non-cooperation MovementIndependent participation of women in pickling of liquor shops, boycott of foreign goods, fasting etc.
(ii) Civil DisobedienceSarojini Naidu, Vijaya Laksmi Pandit led raids to salt factoriesLeadership of women
(iii) Quit India MovementAruna Asaf Ali, Usha Mehta, Sucheta Kripalani etc.educated for advent of populace leaders. Development of female consciousness. Jine Gandhian phase inspired women in their self-capacity and provided a forum for discussion of women's issues.
2The formation of all-women contingent by Subhas C Bose i.e. Rani Swarni Battalion, led by Lakshmi Swaminathan → Inspired females to participate in army.
3Representation of women on political forums → Sarojini Naidu, Annie Besant, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Paojkunari Amritkaur. Therefore, freedom movement would be incomplete life without participation of females.
213 words6 paragraphs
- Chronological organization of women's participation phases
- Specific examples of women leaders
Topper
Ritika Chitlangia
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Modern Indian History
Freedom Struggle
Role of Women in Freedom Struggle
Writing Stats
234
Total words
6
Paragraphs
formal analytical
Tone