Political and social context of the Indian Councils Act of 1909

In the early 1900s, the political and social context in India was characterized by unrest and growing discontent with British rule. The partition of Bengal in 1905 fueled anger and violence throughout the country, with many Hindus feeling that the policy favored Muslims. This led to the rise of extremist movements and violent attacks against British administration. Additionally, the discontent was fueled by the presence of educated Indians who began questioning why they did not enjoy the same freedoms as the British. The moderate Indian National Congress, led by figures like Gopal Krishna Gokhale, started losing popularity as radical leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak emerged. Support from extremist groups in other parts of the world, such as Irish nationalists and American lawyer Myron Phelps, added to the growing unrest.