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The Case for India

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About this book

Speaking to the Indian National Congress in Calcutta on 26 December 1917, Annie Besant makes an urgent argument for Indian self-government. Her presidential address begins with thanks to delegates who supported her during her internment, then connects the demand for Home Rule with Britain's stated defence of national freedom during the Great War. She examines India's military contribution and the burden of spending on campaigns beyond its borders.

The address also considers the growth of national confidence, drawing on Swami Vivekananda's teaching, renewed interest in Sanskrit literature and Japan's victory over Russia. Besant contrasts promises of liberty with the restrictions imposed by colonial government and calls for substantial political reform.

About the author

Annie Besant

Annie Besant was an English socialist, theosophist, freemason, women's rights and activist, educationist, involved in women's rights, Home Rule, and Indian nationalism. She gave support to both Irish and Indian self-rule. She had been the first female president of the Indian National Congress in 1917.