Indian Freedom Struggle: Timeline of National Movement of India

Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reaches the Indian subcontinent, establishing direct sea routes between Europe and India.

The British East India Company is established, receiving a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I to trade with India and other parts of Asia.

British merchants set up the first British trading post in India at Surat.

The British acquire the island of Bombay (now Mumbai) from the Portuguese as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza, who marries King Charles II of England.

The Battle of Plassey takes place, and the British East India Company defeats the Nawab of Bengal, gaining control over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.

The British East India Company secures control over large parts of South India after the Battle of Buxar.

The Regulating Act is passed by the British Parliament, making the Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India.

The Pitt's India Act is enacted, further regulating the governance of British India and creating a Board of Control to oversee Indian affairs.

The British East India Company gains control over the Maratha territories after the Third Anglo-Maratha War, further expanding their territorial influence.

The first railway line is opened between Mumbai and Thane, initiating the development of India's railway network.

The Indian Rebellion, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or First War of Independence, takes place, marking the first major armed resistance against British rule.

The British Crown assumes direct control over India after the end of the East India Company's rule, and Queen Victoria becomes the Empress of India.

The Indian National Congress is founded, providing a platform for Indian political leaders to advocate for reforms and Indian representation.

The First War of Independence (Sepoy Mutiny): The Indian Rebellion against British rule erupted, led by Indian soldiers (sepoys) in the British East India Company's army. It marked the first major revolt against colonial rule.

Formation of Indian National Congress: The Indian National Congress (INC) was established, becoming one of the key platforms for Indian nationalist leaders to demand self-rule.

Partition of Bengal: British India was partitioned along religious lines, leading to widespread protests and civil disobedience movements, particularly in Bengal.

Government of India Act: The British government introduced constitutional reforms, granting some limited provincial autonomy but retaining significant control over India.

Quit India Movement: The INC launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an end to British rule. Mass protests and civil disobedience activities were met with severe repression by the British.

Independence and Partition: India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. However, the country was also partitioned into India and Pakistan, leading to mass migrations and communal violence.

Adoption of the Indian Constitution: India adopted its new constitution on January 26, 1950, establishing itself as a democratic republic.