From migration to revolution : The Ghadar story

IN the autumn of 1914, Indian migrants were leaving North America to challenge British rule, giving up wages, savings and settlement prospects for an uncertain struggle. By the end of October 1914, eight ships had left Victoria and San Francisco carrying Indians; others followed through Asian ports. What had turned migration for livelihood into a journey towards revolution? They had crossed the Pacific seeking work. Early in the century, Punjabis followed reports of good wages to Canada and the US, mortgaging land, selling cattle or borrowing for passage. Remittances repaid debts, preserved farms and supported households. Imperial service had opened…