Programme and Achievements of the Early Nationalists (Moderates)

Constitutional and peaceful methods

Early Nationalists believed in constitutional and peaceful methods to achieve their objectives. They drafted petitions, held meetings, sent deputations to England, and used press to create public opinion. They were opposed to violence and believed in patience and gradual reform. Armed rebellion and terrorist activities were methods of extremists, not moderates. Mass civil disobedience was Gandhi's method during the later phase of the freedom struggle.

1906

Dadabhai Naoroji first demanded 'Swaraj' or self-government from the Congress platform during his presidential address at the Calcutta session in 1906. This was significant as it marked the first formal demand for self-rule. In 1905, Gokhale had made similar demands at Benaras, but Naoroji's 1906 address is considered the landmark moment. The year 1885 was when Congress was founded, and 1893 was one of his earlier presidential terms, but Swaraj demand came in 1906.

Vernacular Press Act

The Early Nationalists particularly opposed the Vernacular Press Act as it restricted freedom of press and speech. This act was specifically targeted at Indian language newspapers and was seen as an attack on civil liberties. While they also opposed the Arms Act (which prohibited Indians from carrying arms), Licence Act, and Salt Tax, the Vernacular Press Act was specifically related to press freedom which was crucial for their political work and public opinion building.

Favourable and friendly

Initially, the British Government adopted a favourable attitude towards Congress and viewed Congress leaders as a 'friendly tribe'. They wanted to use Congress as a 'safety valve' to understand Indian feelings and ease discontent. Lord Dufferin believed it would help them introduce necessary reforms. However, this friendly attitude changed when Congress began demanding more rights, and the government became hostile, calling leaders 'Disloyal Babus' and 'Seditious Brahmins'.