Subject: Modern History

Answer:

India's freedom struggle witnessed active participation from numerous foreigners who were deeply influenced by Indian culture and nationalist ideals. These individuals contributed significantly through their involvement in social reforms, political movements, and cultural renaissance during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Role of Foreign Participants in Social Reforms

• Annie Besant established the Home Rule Movement (1916) and played a crucial role in founding the Banaras Hindu University. Her newspaper "New India" became a powerful voice for Indian nationalism.

• Sister Nivedita, originally Margaret Noble, worked extensively for women's education and national awakening. She established girls' schools and supported Swadeshi Movement while working closely with Vivekananda.

• Madame Cama unfurled the first Indian flag at the International Socialist Conference in Stuttgart (1907) and published revolutionary literature through "Bande Mataram" and "Madan's Talwar".

Political and Revolutionary Contributions

• C.F. Andrews worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi during South African struggles and earned the nickname 'Deenabandhu'. He actively supported the Indian National Congress and worked for indentured laborers' rights.

• Agnes Smedley, an American journalist, supported Indian revolutionaries like Lala Har Dayal and the Ghadar Movement in America, helping establish international networks.

• Samuel Evans Stokes participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and was the only American member of the All India Congress Committee.

Cultural and Intellectual Support

• Romain Rolland wrote extensively about Indian freedom struggle and Mahatma Gandhi, helping spread awareness about India's cause in Europe.

• Mirabehn (Madeleine Slade) became Gandhi's devoted disciple, participated in various nationalist movements, and promoted khadi and village industries.

Media and International Advocacy

• Webb Miller, an American journalist, covered the Salt Satyagraha and helped expose British brutality to the international community.

• Annie Besant's newspapers "Commonweal" and "New India" became powerful instruments for promoting nationalist ideas and criticizing colonial policies.

India's freedom struggle was enriched by these foreign participants who brought diverse perspectives, international connections, and unwavering dedication to the cause of Indian independence. Their contributions helped internationalize India's freedom movement and demonstrated that the struggle against colonial rule transcended national boundaries. Today, their legacy continues to inspire Indo-foreign cultural cooperation and reminds us of the universal appeal of freedom and justice.