Annie Besant became India’s first female Congress President in 1917, leading the Indian National Congress and contributing to the Indian independence movement.
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Annie Besant, a British suffragist and social reformer, made history in 1917 as the first woman to preside over the Indian National Congress. Besant’s presidency marked a significant milestone in the Congress’s history and symbolized the growing role of women in India’s struggle for independence. A staunch advocate for Indian self-rule, Besant’s leadership energized the nationalist movement and galvanized support for the cause of freedom from British colonial rule. During her tenure, she emphasized the importance of social justice, religious harmony, and education in building a stronger and more inclusive India. Besant’s presidency laid the foundation for greater women’s participation in Indian politics and paved the way for future female leaders to emerge within the Congress party and the broader independence movement, leaving an enduring legacy of courage, resilience, and commitment to democratic ideals.