Gandhi: Very Short Introduction

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, widely known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a preeminent leader of India's nonviolent independence movement against British rule, and an advocate for civil rights around the world.

Early Life and Influences

Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, India. His father was the chief minister of the princely state of Porbandar, and his mother was a devout Hindu. Gandhi's early education instilled in him values of ahimsa (nonviolence) and satyagraha (truth and love).

Gandhi: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions Book 37)

by Fatima Bhutto

4.8 out of 5

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In 1888, Gandhi traveled to London to study law. He returned to India in 1891 and began his legal career in Bombay. However, his experiences of discrimination and unequal treatment in South Africa, where he spent 21 years fighting for the rights of Indian immigrants, would profoundly shape his later life.

Nonviolent Resistance

Gandhi developed his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he called satyagraha, in South Africa. Satyagraha is based on the belief that truth and love will ultimately prevail over violence and injustice. Gandhi used satyagraha to lead campaigns for civil rights, economic justice, and independence from British rule.

Gandhi's nonviolent tactics included boycotts, civil disobedience, and hunger strikes. He believed that by refusing to cooperate with unjust laws, people could peacefully pressure the oppressors to change their ways.

Indian Independence Movement

In 1915, Gandhi returned to India and quickly became a leader of the Indian independence movement. He organized mass protests against British rule, including the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) and the Quit India Movement (1942-1945).

Gandhi's nonviolent resistance proved to be a powerful force for change. In 1947, after a long and arduous struggle, India gained independence from British rule. Gandhi is hailed as one of the most influential political figures of the 20th century.

Legacy and Impact

Gandhi's legacy extends far beyond India. His philosophy of nonviolent resistance has inspired movements for civil rights and freedom around the world, including the American Civil Rights Movement led by Martin Luther King Jr.

Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948 by a Hindu nationalist. However, his message of peace and nonviolence continues to resonate with people around the world.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was a remarkable figure who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, justice, and nonviolence. His legacy as a leader of India's independence movement and a global advocate for civil rights continues to inspire and challenge us today.

Gandhi: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions Book 37)

by Fatima Bhutto

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3310 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE