The Indian National Congress (INC) played a pivotal role in the Indian freedom movement. Initially founded in 1885 as a platform for moderate reformers, it became the principal political party driving India's struggle for independence:

• Moderate Phase (1885-1905): Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Surendranath Banerjee emphasized constitutional reforms, the protection of Indian interests, and the right to self-rule through dialogue with the British.

• Extremist Phase (1905-1919): Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai adopted a more aggressive approach, demanding swaraj (self-rule) and using mass mobilization tactics.

• Gandhian Phase (1919-1947): Mahatma Gandhi took leadership of the INC and transformed the movement through non-violent civil disobedience, including campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), Salt March (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942).

• Mass Mobilization: The INC engaged the masses in large-scale protests, strikes, and non-cooperation, making the struggle for independence a national effort.

• Negotiations with the British: Throughout the freedom struggle, the INC consistently negotiated with the British government through conferences like the Round Table Conferences and the Cripps Mission, even while organizing mass protests.

The INC’s strategies and leadership were integral to India’s eventual independence in 1947.