Question

who were moderates? how did they propose to struggle against British rule?

Answer 1

The Indian National Congress in its early years was dominated by the moderates. Moderates were a group of political leaders who believed in British sense of justice and fair play. They believed in changing the policies of the government by sending petitions to the British government. They protested within the constitutional limits of the country. Moderate leaders practised what was called by the Radicals as the "politics of petitions"
The moderates published many articles in the newspapers and journals highlighting about the increasing poverty of the country under the British rule. The Congress in its early years during the period of the moderates created awareness about the impoverishment of the peasants, food shortages in the country etc. They demanded reduction in military expenditures and revenues. They also raised the difficulties faced by the tribals due to the passing of the Forest Acts and highlighted the plight of the Indian labourers abroad. Since the moderates felt that the British government respect the ideals of freedom and justice, their just demands would be accepted by the government.

Answer 2

The early nationalist known as the moderates, were a group of politics leaders in india active between 1885 and 1905. Their emergence marked the beginning of the organised national movement in India.