Understanding the Champaran Satyagraha

The question asks about the specific year when the Champaran Satyagraha took place. Understanding this event is crucial for studying the history of India's freedom struggle.

The Champaran Satyagraha was a significant movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. It was primarily focused on addressing the grievances of the farmers in the Champaran district of Bihar, India.

The Context of the Champaran Satyagraha

Farmers in Champaran were forced by British planters to cultivate indigo on a significant portion of their land (usually 3/20th part, known as the 'Tinkathia' system) and sell it at prices fixed by the planters. This system was exploitative and caused immense hardship to the farmers, especially when the demand for natural indigo declined due to the invention of synthetic dyes.

Local leaders and farmers invited Mahatma Gandhi to look into their situation. Gandhi's arrival marked his first major involvement in a non-violent resistance movement (Satyagraha) in India after his return from South Africa.

Key Events and Timeline

Mahatma Gandhi arrived in Champaran and began investigating the conditions of the farmers. He faced opposition from the authorities but continued his work, documenting the injustices. He employed the methods of Satyagraha – non-violent resistance and civil disobedience.

The pressure exerted by Gandhi's peaceful protest and widespread support led the government to appoint a committee to inquire into the matter. Gandhi was a member of this committee.

Based on the committee's findings, the Champaran Agrarian Act was passed. This act abolished the Tinkathia system and provided some relief to the farmers, including compensation for the illegal exactions by the planters.

When Did the Champaran Satyagraha Occur?

The Champaran Satyagraha began its crucial phase with Mahatma Gandhi's arrival and investigation in the district. This pivotal event in India's freedom movement took place in the year 1917.

It is considered the first Satyagraha movement inspired by Gandhi on Indian soil and laid the groundwork for his future campaigns against British rule.

Revision Table: Champaran Satyagraha Facts

Additional Information: Significance of Champaran Satyagraha

• It was Mahatma Gandhi's first major successful application of Satyagraha in India.
• It brought Gandhi into close contact with the rural population of India, allowing him to understand their problems firsthand.
• It demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent methods against injustice, inspiring future movements.
• Many prominent leaders of the Indian freedom movement participated alongside Gandhi, gaining valuable experience.

The Champaran Satyagraha was a watershed moment, establishing Gandhi as a leader of mass movements and paving the way for India's independence struggle.