Women in Indian National Freedom Movement

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Political environment in India. 3. The reform acts. 4. The doctrine of Swaraj. 5. The National Movement. 6. Struggle and organization. 7. Identity, autonomy, and the state. 8. The transfer of power. 9. Women freedom fighters of India. 10. Role of women. Select chronology. Glossary. Bibliography. Index.

The history of Indian Freedom Struggle would be incomplete without mentioning the contributions of women. The sacrifice made by the women of India will occupy the foremost place. They fought with true spirit and undaunted courage and faced various tortures, exploitations and hardships to earn us freedom. When most of the men freedom fighters were in prison the women came forward and took change of the struggle. The list of great women whose names have gone down in history for their dedication and undying devotion to the service of India is a long one. Woman’s participation in India’s freedom struggle began as early as in 1817. The role played by women in the War of Independence (the Great Revolt) of 1857 was creditable and invited the admiration even leaders of the revolt. Indian women who joined the national movement belonged to educated and liberal families, as well as those from the rural areas and from all walk of life, all castes, religions and communities.