Final answer:
Formed in 1885, the Indian National Congress aimed to lead India to independence, promote modernization and democracy, and reform political systems to empower Indians. Despite divisions and British opposition, the Congress orchestrated movements that were critical in India's fight for self-rule.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Indian National Congress was formed in 1885 by a group of well-educated Indians with the goal of leading India towards independence from British rule. Initially, the Congress party advocated for Western-style modernization and greater democracy, believing that self-rule was essential for the empowerment of Indians. By fostering political reform, the Congress aimed to end unfair taxation and remove barriers to industrialization. In the early years, Hindu and Muslim leaders in the INC worked collaboratively, but division led to the creation of the Muslim League in 1906. Despite these internal challenges and British efforts to sow division, the INC's efforts evolved through movements such as the Non-cooperation Movement and the Salt March, which played significant roles in building momentum towards complete independence, championed by leaders like Nehru and Gandhi