Answer: 

Introduction:

The Indian National Congress (INC), founded in 1885, initially consisted of moderate leaders who sought constitutional reforms, civil rights, and greater representation in the legislative and administrative processes. While their methods and demands were relatively limited compared to the more radical leaders and ideologies that emerged later, the moderates played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the wider freedom movement in India.

Body:

Listed below are the multitude of approaches through which the moderates established the groundwork for the expansive freedom movement:

• Awareness and Unity: The moderates fostered political consciousness, national unity, and a sense of common purpose. They exposed the exploitative nature of British rule and united people from different regions, religions, and linguistic backgrounds.
• Constitutional and Legal Means: By employing petitions, resolutions, and debates, they prepared the Indian masses for a more organized and democratic struggle in the years to come.
• Press and Public Opinion: Newspapers like The Hindu, The Statesman, and The Amrita Bazar Patrika played a significant role in promoting their demands and grievances, thus creating an environment conducive to the growth of the freedom movement.
• Demands for Reforms: Their efforts led to the introduction of Indian Councils Act of 1892, which expanded the role of Indians in the legislative process, and the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909, which provided for limited self-governance.
• Emergence of Mass Movements: Although they may not have directly initiated these movements, their efforts paved the way for more radical leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, who adopted a more aggressive approach towards British rule.

Conclusion:

While their methods and demands may have been moderate compared to the more radical leaders that followed, their contributions were instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the Indian freedom movement.