Spread of Non-Cooperation movement in the countryside:

The Non-Cooperation movement was an important phase in India's struggle for independence. It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 and aimed at achieving complete independence from British rule through nonviolent means. The movement gained widespread support in both urban and rural areas of the country. Here is a detailed explanation of the spread of the Non-Cooperation movement in the countryside:

1. Impact of the Khilafat Movement:
- The Khilafat movement, which was launched to protest against the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and the ill-treatment of the Caliph, gained significant support in rural areas.
- The rural Muslim population, which was deeply affected by the issue of the Caliphate, actively participated in the Non-Cooperation movement as a means to express their grievances.

2. Role of the Congress:
- The Indian National Congress played a crucial role in mobilizing support for the Non-Cooperation movement in rural areas.
- Congress leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, toured different villages and held public meetings to explain the objectives of the movement and garner support.
- They emphasized the need for unity among all sections of society and encouraged villagers to boycott British institutions, particularly the courts, schools, and government offices.

3. Boycott of British goods:
- One of the key aspects of the Non-Cooperation movement was the boycott of British goods.
- In rural areas, villagers were urged to stop using British-made textiles and instead promote the use of khadi or hand-spun cloth.
- Mahatma Gandhi's call for spinning wheels and khadi production resonated with the rural population, as it provided them with a means of self-employment and self-sufficiency.

4. Participation of peasants:
- The majority of the Indian population lived in rural areas, and the peasants formed a significant part of this population.
- Peasants were deeply affected by British policies such as high land revenue, unfair taxation, and the exploitation by landlords.
- The Non-Cooperation movement provided an opportunity for peasants to protest against these injustices and demand better rights and conditions.

5. Spread of the message:
- The message of the Non-Cooperation movement spread through various channels in the countryside.
- Political leaders, activists, and volunteers traveled to rural areas, organizing meetings, and spreading awareness about the movement.
- Newspapers, pamphlets, and other forms of printed material were used to disseminate information and encourage participation.

6. Role of local leaders:
- Local leaders played a crucial role in mobilizing support for the movement in the countryside.
- They organized village-level meetings, explained the objectives of the movement, and encouraged villagers to actively participate in boycotts and protests.
- These local leaders had a deep understanding of the issues faced by their communities, which helped in garnering support for the movement.

Overall, the Non-Cooperation movement spread effectively in the countryside due to the combination of factors such as the impact of the Khilafat movement, the efforts of the Congress, the boycott of British goods, the participation of peasants, the spread of the message, and the role of local leaders. These factors led to widespread support and active participation of the rural population in the movement, making it a significant phase in India's struggle for independence.