Describe briefly the ideals and programmes of the Indian National Congress between 1885 and 1905.

The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885 as a platform for Indians to voice their demands for political and social reform.

• The Congress initially focused on issues such as the promotion of education, the abolition of discriminatory laws, and the protection of civil rights.

• It also sought to engage with the British government and persuade it to make concessions and reforms in favour of the Indian people.

• The Congress was led by a number of influential figures, including Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who were known for their moderate and moderate-radical views, respectively.

• In the early 1900s, the Congress began to shift its focus towards the demand for self-government and independence from British rule.

• This shift was influenced by the growing discontent among Indians over the oppressive policies of the British government, such as the partition of Bengal in 1905.

• The Congress also began to adopt more militant tactics, such as boycotting British goods and organising strikes and protests, to push for their demands.

• The Congress continued to be divided between moderate and radical factions, with the latter advocating for more aggressive and militant action.

Despite these divisions, the Congress remained a powerful force in the Indian independence movement and played a crucial role in shaping the country's political landscape.