Swadeshi Movement
The Swadeshi Movement was the first mass movement against the British in India. It was launched in 1905 in response to the partition of Bengal by the British government. The movement aimed to boycott British goods and promote Indian goods in order to protest against the British policies and assert Indian economic independence.

Causes of the Swadeshi Movement
- The partition of Bengal in 1905 was a major trigger for the Swadeshi Movement. This decision was seen as a deliberate attempt to divide the Bengali-speaking population and weaken the nationalist movement.
- The economic exploitation of India by the British, which led to the decline of Indian industries and the loss of employment for many Indians, also fueled the Swadeshi Movement.

Features of the Swadeshi Movement
- The movement encouraged the use of Indian goods and the boycott of British products.
- It promoted the revival of Indian industries and the development of indigenous skills and crafts.
- Swadeshi propaganda was spread through newspapers, pamphlets, and public meetings.
- The movement gained widespread support from all sections of Indian society, including students, peasants, and industrialists.

Impact of the Swadeshi Movement
- The Swadeshi Movement played a significant role in mobilizing the Indian masses against British rule.
- It led to the growth of nationalist sentiments and the emergence of leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal.
- The boycott of British goods had a significant economic impact on the British government and helped in weakening their hold over India.
In conclusion, the Swadeshi Movement marked the beginning of mass movements against British colonial rule in India and laid the foundation for future struggles for independence.