Indian National Congress- History, Session, President List

The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most prominent political parties in India. The Indian National Congress is a prominent political parties, playing a central role in the country’s struggle for independence from British rule and shaping its post-independence political landscape. Over the years, the INC has promoted social reforms, economic development, and secularism while championing democratic values and governance across India’s diverse regions.

Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress was established in the year 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. It evolved into a powerful movement, uniting Indians across social and regional lines to demand complete independence and shape a democratic, self-governing India.

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 Chandra 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 (1885-1905) : The Moderates (1885-1905) were early leaders of the Indian National Congress who sought gradual political reform and self-governance through peaceful dialogue and constitutional means. They advocated for Indian rights within the British framework, emphasizing education, representation, and economic policies.
• Extremists (1905-1919) : The Extremists within the Indian National Congress advocated for more radical approaches to achieve independence. Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal emphasized direct action, mass mobilization, and the use of protests to challenge British authority and assert national rights.
• 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 15 August 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 Chandra Bonnerjee to later leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi, each president has played an important role. This Congress Session list or The Congress Adhiveshan 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

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. Along with the INC president in 1905 was Gopal Krishn Gokhle and the INC Session was held in Banaras.

Indian National Congress: 1920 Calcutta Session on Map

In 1920, the Indian National Congress session was held in two places. First was Nagpur and 2nd  was Calcutta. In the Nagpur Session (1920), The Congress president was C. Vijayaraghavachariar and the Calcutta Session (1920) was Lala Lajpat Rai.

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