Home Rule League Movement

Total Questions: 13

11. Annie Besant was – [I.A.S. (Pre) 2013]

  1. responsible for starting the Home Rule Movement.
  2. the founder of the Theosophical Society.
  3. once the President of the Indian National Congress.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3
Solution:Even though Annie Besant was associated with the Theosophical Society, she was not its founder. It was founded by Madame Blavatsky and Henry Olcott. Thus, statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is correct that Annie Besant became the first woman President of the Indian National Congress in 1917, Calcutta Session.

Statement 1 is also correct. Annie Besant launched the Home Rule League in India on the lines of the Irish Home Rule Leagues along with Tilak.

12. In 1920, which of the following changed its name to "Swarajya Sabha"? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]

Correct Answer: (a) All India Home Rule League
Solution:The Home Rule Movement, the All India Home Rule League, was a national political organization founded in September 1916 by Annie Besant. Tilak's Indian Home Rule League in Karnataka, Maharashtra (except Bombay), Central Provinces and Berar.

The rest of the country fell under the care of Annie Besant's League. The aim of the League was to achieve self-government in a constitutional manner within the British Empire. In 1920, the All India Home Rule League elected Mahatma Gandhi as its President and Mahatma Gandhi changed its name to 'Swarajya Sabha' (Assembly).

13. Who among the following was a proponent of Fabianism as a movement? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2005]

Correct Answer: (a) Annie Besant
Solution:Annie Besant (1847-1933) was a proponent of the Fabian movement. Annie Besant was a British social reformer and activist whose work left an indelible mark on Indian history. Renowned for her leadership in the Theosophical Society, Besant played a pivotal role in the revival of theosophy.

Her efforts in education played a significant role in establishing many educational institutions in India, including those focused on women's education. Annie Besant passionately advocated for Indian self-rule, becoming a key figure in the Home Rule Movement.

Her involvement also included presiding over the Indian National Congress session in 1917. Her leadership and dedication to India's cause contributed to the broader struggle for independence.