Factors Promoting The Growth of National and Foundation of The Indian National Congress — Important Questions

Dadabhai Naoroji

Dadabhai Naoroji is known as the 'Grand Old Man of India' due to his long and distinguished service to the Indian national movement. He founded the East India Association in London in 1866 and was one of the first Indians to raise the slogan of Swaraj. His book 'Poverty and Un-British Rule in India' highlighted the economic drain from India to Britain. He served as President of the Indian National Congress three times and was the first Indian to be elected to the British House of Commons.

Raja Rammohan Roy

Raja Rammohan Roy (1772-1833) is known as the 'Father of Indian Nationalism'. He was the first to start religious and social reformation in modern India and founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828. He advocated for civil rights, supported a free press, and presented petitions against press regulations. His efforts led to the abolition of Sati in 1829. He combined religious reform with political awareness and is credited with beginning the process of awakening national consciousness in India.

Indian National Union

The original name of the organization was the 'Indian National Union', founded by A.O. Hume in 1884. When the first session was held in Bombay in December 1885, Dadabhai Naoroji suggested changing the name to 'Indian National Congress', which was accepted. The Indian Association was founded by Surendranath Banerjea in 1876, while the East India Association was established by Dadabhai Naoroji in London in 1866. These were separate organizations that preceded the Congress.

1828

The Brahmo Samaj was founded by Raja Rammohan Roy in 1828. This religious and social reform organization promoted monotheism and opposed idol worship, caste system, and social evils like Sati. The Brahmo Samaj played a crucial role in the Bengal Renaissance and social awakening. The year 1829 is often confused because that's when the law banning Sati was passed due to Rammohan Roy's efforts, but the Brahmo Samaj itself was established in 1828.