# Who was the First President of the Indian National Congress? A Comprehensive Guide
Hello! Are you curious about who led the Indian National Congress in its early days? You've come to the right place! This article will give you a clear, detailed, and accurate answer to your question. We will explore the historical context and significance of the first president of this pivotal organization.
## Correct Answer:
**The first president of the Indian National Congress was *Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee*.**
## Detailed Explanation:
The Indian National Congress (INC) was established in 1885 and played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence. Understanding who presided over its initial session provides insight into the organization's early goals and strategies. Let's delve into the details about Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee and the circumstances surrounding his presidency.
### The Formation of the Indian National Congress
Before we discuss the first president, it’s essential to understand the context in which the INC was formed:
* **Background:** The INC was founded during a period of growing nationalist sentiment in India under British rule. Various regional associations and political groups had emerged, but there was a need for a unified, national-level organization.
* **Foundation:** The Indian National Congress was founded on December 28, 1885, at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College in Bombay (now Mumbai). The initiative was largely taken by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, who aimed to provide a platform for educated Indians to voice their opinions and grievances.
* **Objectives:** The initial objectives of the INC were to promote friendly relations between nationalist political workers from different parts of the country, to develop and consolidate a feeling of national unity irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or province, to formulate popular demands and present them to the government, and to train and organize public opinion in the country.
### Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee: The First President
Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, often referred to as W. C. Bonnerjee, was a distinguished barrister and one of the leading figures in the Indian National Congress. His selection as the first president was significant for several reasons:
* **Early Life and Education:** Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was born on December 29, 1844, in Calcutta (now Kolkata). He received his early education at the Oriental Seminary and the Hindu School. He later studied law in England and became a successful barrister in Calcutta High Court.
* **Legal Career:** Bonnerjee was a highly respected lawyer known for his expertise and integrity. His successful legal career gave him a prominent position in society, which added credibility to the INC.
* **Presidential Role:** At the inaugural session of the INC in 1885, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was elected as the president. He delivered a significant presidential address that outlined the Congress's objectives and vision for the future.
### Significance of Bonnerjee's Presidency
Bonnerjee's role as the first president was more than just ceremonial; it laid the foundation for the Congress's future direction:
* **Unifying Figure:** As a respected and well-known figure, Bonnerjee brought together various regional leaders and factions under a common platform. His leadership helped in creating a cohesive national movement.
* **Articulating Objectives:** In his presidential address, Bonnerjee clearly articulated the objectives of the Congress, emphasizing the need for constitutional reforms, Indian representation in the government, and the promotion of national unity.
* **Setting the Tone:** Bonnerjee set a tone of moderation and cooperation in the early years of the Congress. He believed in working within the existing system to achieve gradual reforms.
### Key Principles Advocated by W. C. Bonnerjee
Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee advocated for several key principles that shaped the early Congress ideology:
* **Constitutionalism:** Bonnerjee believed in achieving political reforms through constitutional means. He emphasized the importance of dialogue, negotiation, and peaceful methods of protest.
* **Indian Representation:** He strongly advocated for greater Indian representation in the legislative councils and the civil services. He believed that Indians should have a greater say in the governance of their country.
* **National Unity:** Bonnerjee stressed the importance of national unity and harmony among different communities. He called for an end to sectarianism and promoted a sense of common identity among Indians.
* **Gradual Reform:** He favored a gradual approach to reform, believing that incremental changes were more sustainable and effective in the long run. He cautioned against radical measures that could lead to instability.
### Challenges During His Tenure
Bonnerjee faced several challenges during his presidency:
* **Limited Representation:** The early Congress primarily represented the educated elite and upper classes. One of the challenges was to broaden its base and include representatives from all sections of society.
* **Internal Divisions:** There were differing viewpoints within the Congress on the best way forward. Bonnerjee had to navigate these internal divisions and maintain a sense of unity.
* **Government Scrutiny:** The British government was initially supportive of the Congress but soon became wary of its growing influence. Bonnerjee had to deal with government scrutiny and attempts to undermine the organization.
### Subsequent Role in the Congress
After his initial presidency, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee remained an active member of the Congress and continued to contribute to the national movement:
* **Second Term as President:** He was elected as the president of the Congress for a second time in 1892, during the Allahabad session. This demonstrated the continued confidence that Congress members had in his leadership.
* **Advocate for Reforms:** Throughout his career, Bonnerjee remained a strong advocate for constitutional reforms and Indian representation in the government. He used his legal expertise to advance these causes.
* **Contribution to Political Discourse:** Bonnerjee contributed significantly to the political discourse in India through his speeches, writings, and public activities. He helped shape the intellectual and ideological foundations of the national movement.
### Historical Context of the Indian National Congress
To fully appreciate Bonnerjee's role, it's crucial to understand the broader historical context:
* **Rise of Nationalism:** The late 19th century witnessed a surge in nationalist sentiment in India, fueled by factors such as economic exploitation, social discrimination, and the spread of Western education.
* **Influence of Western Education:** Western education played a significant role in shaping the intellectual outlook of Indian leaders. It exposed them to ideas of democracy, liberty, and equality, which inspired them to fight for greater rights and self-governance.
* **Socio-Religious Reform Movements:** Parallel to the political movements, various socio-religious reform movements such as the Brahmo Samaj and the Arya Samaj sought to address social evils and promote religious reform. These movements also contributed to the overall awakening of Indian society.
### The Legacy of Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee
Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee's legacy is significant in the annals of Indian history:
* **Pioneer of Indian Nationalism:** He is remembered as one of the pioneers of Indian nationalism and a key figure in the early years of the Congress. His leadership helped lay the groundwork for the subsequent struggle for independence.
* **Advocate for Constitutionalism:** Bonnerjee's emphasis on constitutional means and gradual reform influenced the Congress's approach in its early years. This approach helped the Congress gain legitimacy and credibility among the Indian population.
* **Inspiration for Future Leaders:** His life and work served as an inspiration for future generations of Indian leaders who carried forward the struggle for independence. His commitment to national unity, constitutionalism, and social justice continues to resonate today.
### Conclusion
Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee's presidency marked a crucial beginning for the Indian National Congress. His leadership provided a foundation for the organization's future endeavors in advocating for Indian rights and eventual independence. Understanding his role helps us appreciate the complex history of India's struggle for freedom.
## Key Takeaways:
* Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was the first president of the Indian National Congress, elected in 1885.
* He was a respected barrister who brought credibility and leadership to the Congress.
* Bonnerjee advocated for constitutional reforms, Indian representation in the government, and national unity.
* His presidency helped set the tone for the Congress's early approach of moderation and cooperation.
* Bonnerjee's legacy as a pioneer of Indian nationalism continues to inspire generations.
