The Civil Disobedience Movement began in 1930 and aimed at breaking unjust British laws through non-violent action. It started with the famous Dandi March, also called the Salt Satyagraha. This is a high-frequency topic in history sections.
Background
At the Lahore Session (1929), the Congress declared Purna Swaraj (complete independence) as its goal. 26 January 1930 was celebrated as the first Independence Day. Soon after, Gandhi launched the movement by breaking the salt law.
The Dandi March
Gandhi started the march from Sabarmati Ashram on 12 March 1930 and reached Dandi on 6 April 1930. The march covered about 240 miles (385 km). At Dandi, Gandhi made salt from sea water, breaking the British salt law.
Spread of the Movement
People across India broke salt and other laws, boycotted foreign goods and refused to pay taxes.
- Women took part in large numbers.
- Sarojini Naidu led the raid on the Dharasana Salt Works.
- The North-West Frontier was led by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, known as the Frontier Gandhi.
Gandhi-Irwin Pact and End
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed in March 1931, and Gandhi agreed to attend the Second Round Table Conference. The movement was finally withdrawn in 1934.
Quick Revision Points
- Purna Swaraj declared at the Lahore Session 1929.
- Dandi March began on 12 March 1930.
- Gandhi reached Dandi on 6 April 1930.
- Movement started with breaking the salt law.
- Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed in March 1931.
- Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan was the Frontier Gandhi.
- Movement withdrawn in 1934.