Gandhi

Definition

Mahatma Gandhi was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule, known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. His approach to political and social change emphasized the power of peaceful protest and moral persuasion, making him a pivotal figure in shaping modern India and inspiring global movements for civil rights and freedom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence was influenced by various sources, including Hinduism, Jainism, and the teachings of figures like Henry David Thoreau.
2. His Salt March in 1930 was a significant act of civil disobedience against British salt laws, symbolizing the broader struggle for India's independence.
3. Gandhi advocated for the inclusion of all Indians in the independence movement, emphasizing unity among diverse religious and ethnic groups.
4. He was imprisoned multiple times by British authorities for his activism but continued to inspire millions through his writings and speeches.
5. Gandhi's legacy extends beyond India, influencing civil rights leaders around the world, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

Review Questions

• How did Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance influence the Indian independence movement?
  • Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance, or Satyagraha, played a critical role in shaping the Indian independence movement by promoting peaceful protests and civil disobedience against British rule. His emphasis on moral authority over physical force rallied diverse groups within India to join the struggle for freedom. This approach not only gained significant domestic support but also attracted international attention and sympathy towards India's quest for independence.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Gandhi's Salt March as a strategy in the context of British colonial rule.
  • The Salt March was an effective strategy that highlighted the injustices of British colonial rule while demonstrating Gandhi's commitment to nonviolent protest. By marching 240 miles to produce salt from seawater, he directly challenged British laws and galvanized widespread participation from Indians across social classes. This act of civil disobedience garnered international media coverage, drawing global attention to India's struggle for independence and further undermining British legitimacy.
• Critically analyze how Gandhi's approach to political activism influenced global movements for civil rights in the 20th century.
  • Gandhi's approach to political activism had a profound influence on global movements for civil rights throughout the 20th century by showcasing the power of nonviolent resistance. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. adopted Gandhi's principles to combat racial segregation in the United States, believing that peaceful protest could create social change without resorting to violence. Similarly, Nelson Mandela drew inspiration from Gandhi's tactics during his fight against apartheid in South Africa. This global resonance demonstrates how Gandhi's methods transcended cultural and geographical boundaries, inspiring countless individuals in their own struggles for justice and equality.

Related terms

Satyagraha: A philosophy and practice of nonviolent resistance developed by Gandhi, aimed at achieving social and political change through peaceful means.

Civil Disobedience: The active, professed refusal to obey certain laws, demands, or commands of a government, often associated with Gandhi's strategies during the independence movement.

Indian National Congress: A major political party in India that played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence, with Gandhi serving as a key leader in the organization.