The correct answer is option 2, the Lucknow Pact. The Lucknow Pact occurred earliest in the Indian freedom struggle.

Option 1, the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, took place in 1931. It was a significant event where Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India, reached an agreement to release political prisoners and allow the participation of the Indian National Congress in the Round Table Conferences.

Option 3, the Cripps Mission Proposals, took place in 1942. It was a failed attempt by Sir Stafford Cripps, a British politician, to secure Indian support for the British war effort during World War II. The proposals were rejected by Indian leaders as they did not meet their demands for complete independence.

Option 4, the August Offer, also occurred in 1942. It was a statement by the British Government promising greater participation of Indians in their own government after the war. However, it was seen as inadequate by Indian leaders and rejected.

Therefore, the Lucknow Pact, signed in 1916, occurred earliest in the Indian freedom struggle. It was an important agreement between the Indian National Congress and the All India Muslim League, addressing the issue of political representation for Hindus and Muslims in the British