* Background: The massacre occurred during a peaceful protest against the Rowlatt Acts, repressive laws passed by the British government in India. The protest was held in Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden in Amritsar, and was attended by thousands of unarmed civilians.
* Dyer's Actions: Dyer, who was in charge of the Amritsar garrison, ordered his troops to open fire on the crowd without warning. The troops fired for about ten minutes, killing hundreds of people and injuring many more.
* Justification: Dyer claimed he was acting to maintain order and deter further unrest. He said he considered the protest an act of defiance against British authority.
* Consequences: The Amritsar massacre was a horrific event that sparked widespread outrage and condemnation both in India and abroad. Dyer was later dismissed from the British Army, but he remained a controversial figure. His actions are widely seen as a symbol of British brutality and arrogance in India.
It's important to note that:
* No official apology: The British government never officially apologized for the massacre.
* Dyer's actions condemned: The massacre was widely condemned, including by many British officials at the time.
* Historical significance: The Amritsar massacre is a pivotal moment in Indian history. It is remembered as a symbol of British oppression and a catalyst for the Indian independence movement.
The Amritsar massacre is a complex and sensitive topic. It's important to understand the historical context and the various perspectives surrounding this tragic event.