Revolutionary Trends in Society

Greatly influenced by the philosophy of radicalism advocated by Roberts of Manchester and her contacts with free thinkers and socialists like George Bernard Shaw and Bradlaugh, Annie Besant defied British system of government in India, glorified Indian culture and heritage, demanded self government for India, and criticised the violent means used and advocated by extremists. Her speeches and writings had the glaring elements of force, strength determination and fear-lessness. She emphasised the wellknown poetical dictum of James Russell Lowell. They are slaves who fear to speak for the fallen and the weak. (jacket)