Mahatma Gandhi

Definition

Mahatma Gandhi was a leader in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule, known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. His approach influenced decolonization movements around the world, highlighting the importance of peaceful protest and moral integrity in the struggle for independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gandhi's methods of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience were pivotal in mobilizing millions of Indians against British rule, leading to significant political reforms.
2. His famous Salt March in 1930 was a direct action campaign against the salt tax imposed by the British, which garnered international attention and support for India's independence.
3. Gandhi believed in self-sufficiency and encouraged the spinning of khadi (hand-spun cloth) as a way to boycott British goods and promote Indian industry.
4. He emphasized the importance of communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims, striving to unite various religious groups against colonial oppression.
5. Gandhi's legacy of nonviolent resistance inspired numerous civil rights movements around the globe, influencing leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

Review Questions

• How did Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence contribute to the Indian independence movement?
  • Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence was crucial in mobilizing the masses against British colonial rule. His approach emphasized moral integrity and peaceful protests, which attracted widespread support among diverse groups within India. By advocating for civil disobedience and peaceful resistance, Gandhi created a movement that united people across religious and social divides, ultimately leading to significant political changes and India's independence.
• Discuss the impact of Gandhi's Salt March on the Indian independence movement and its international significance.
  • The Salt March in 1930 was a pivotal event in the Indian independence movement that highlighted Gandhi's strategy of nonviolent protest. By marching 240 miles to produce salt from seawater, Gandhi directly challenged British authority and their oppressive salt tax. This act of civil disobedience captured global attention, galvanized Indian citizens, and illustrated the power of nonviolent resistance, setting a precedent for similar movements worldwide.
• Evaluate how Gandhi's vision for India post-independence addressed issues of communal harmony and economic self-sufficiency.
  • Gandhi envisioned an independent India characterized by communal harmony among Hindus and Muslims, striving to reduce religious tensions that could threaten national unity. He promoted economic self-sufficiency through initiatives like khadi production, encouraging Indians to rely on local resources rather than imported goods. This dual focus on social cohesion and economic independence aimed to create a just society where all communities could thrive together, reflecting Gandhi's deep commitment to ethical principles in governance.

Related terms

Civil Disobedience: The act of peacefully refusing to obey certain laws or demands of a government as a form of political protest.

Satyagraha: A philosophy developed by Gandhi that emphasizes nonviolent resistance as a means to bring about social and political change.

Indian National Congress: A major political party in India that played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, with Gandhi as one of its key leaders.