Explain Quit India Movement.

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a significant milestone in India's struggle for independence against British colonial rule. Launched on August 8, 1942, by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, the movement aimed at achieving India's immediate and unconditional independence.

Key features of the Quit India Movement include:

1. Demand for Immediate Independence: The primary objective of the Quit India Movement was to demand the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the British from India. The leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, believed that continued British presence in India was hindering progress and self-governance.

2. Gandhi's Call for 'Do or Die': In his famous speech, Gandhi delivered the iconic slogan "Do or Die," urging the Indian population to strive for independence with all their strength and determination. This call for a decisive struggle galvanized the masses to actively participate in the movement.

3. Massive Civil Disobedience: The movement saw widespread civil disobedience, protests, and strikes across the country. Indians, both urban and rural, participated in nonviolent demonstrations, marches, and acts of defiance against British authorities.

4. Suppression by the British: The British responded to the movement with a heavy hand, arresting prominent leaders, imposing curfews, and using force to quell protests. The crackdown led to mass arrests, and many leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, were detained.

5. Underground Activities: Despite the suppression, underground activities and resistance continued. The movement inspired acts of sabotage against British infrastructure and communication networks, symbolizing the determination of the people to free India from colonial rule.

6. Impact on International Opinion: The Quit India Movement garnered international attention and sympathy for India's struggle for independence. The global community took note of the Indian people's commitment to achieving self-rule, contributing to India's diplomatic standing on the international stage.

7. Post-War Political Landscape: The movement played a role in shaping the post-war political landscape, as the British government recognized the need for addressing Indian aspirations. The realization that continued colonial control was untenable paved the way for negotiations and discussions on India's future.

While the Quit India Movement did not immediately lead to India's independence, it marked a turning point in the struggle against British rule. The movement's intensity and widespread participation demonstrated the Indian population's readiness for self-governance and hastened the process of decolonization, ultimately culminating in India gaining independence in 1947.