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Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi and Congress Politics: Transforming a Party into a Mass Movement

The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded in 1885 as a platform for educated Indians to voice their concerns under British rule. However, it was Mahatma Gandhi who transformed the Congress from an elite political body into a mass movement that mobilized millions across India. His entry into Congress politics marked a shift from constitutional methods of petitioning the British to large-scale civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance.

Gandhi’s Entry and Ideological Shift

When Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915, the Congress was largely dominated by Western-educated leaders who sought gradual reforms within British rule. Gandhi, on the other hand, advocated for Swaraj (self-rule) through nonviolent struggle. His methods appealed directly to farmers, workers, and the lower castes, making the Congress a truly national party.

Key Contributions to Congress Politics

1. Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha (1917-1918)

Gandhi’s first major political interventions were the Champaran Satyagraha (to support indigo farmers in Bihar) and the Kheda Satyagraha (against unjust taxation in Gujarat). These struggles introduced his method of Satyagraha (truth-force), which became the backbone of Congress-led movements.

2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)

Gandhi convinced Congress to launch the Non-Cooperation Movement, urging Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and services. For the first time, Congress became a party of the masses, with peasants, merchants, and students actively participating. The movement, however, was called off after the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922.

3. Civil Disobedience and Salt March (1930)

In 1930, under Gandhi’s leadership, Congress launched the Civil Disobedience Movement with the famous Salt March (Dandi March), where Gandhi and his followers broke the British salt monopoly. This movement strengthened Congress’s position as the leading anti-colonial force in India.

4. Quit India Movement (1942)

During World War II, Gandhi led the Quit India Movement, calling for an immediate end to British rule. The Congress, now fully aligned with Gandhi’s vision, faced severe repression, with leaders imprisoned. This movement was one of the final blows to British colonial rule.

Congress After Gandhi

Gandhi’s assassination in 1948 marked the end of an era. The Congress, under Jawaharlal Nehru, continued his vision of a secular, socialist India but gradually moved towards electoral politics. Over the decades, the party has undergone ideological shifts, facing both successes and challenges in Indian democracy.

Legacy of Gandhi in Congress Politics

Even today, Gandhi’s ideals of nonviolence, Swaraj, and social justice remain central to Indian political thought. While the Congress has evolved, its foundational identity remains tied to Gandhi’s vision of an inclusive and democratic India.

Gandhi’s influence on Congress politics was transformative, turning it from a limited political organization into a mass movement that led India to independence. His principles continue to shape political discourse, reminding leaders of the power of nonviolence, people’s participation, and moral leadership.

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Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi as a Folk Hero

Mahatma Gandhi is often viewed as a folk hero because his life and ideals resonate deeply with people beyond political or historical narratives. Folk heroes typically embody values, struggles, and aspirations of common people, often becoming larger-than-life figures in popular imagination. Gandhi fits this description in several ways:

1. Symbol of Resistance and Justice

  • Like folk heroes from various traditions, Gandhi is seen as a figure who stood up against a powerful oppressor (British colonial rule) using nonviolent methods.
  • His Salt March (1930) mirrors classic folk tales where an underdog challenges a mighty force using wit and courage.

2. Champion of the Poor and Marginalized

  • He dressed like a common man (in simple dhoti and shawl) and lived among villagers, reinforcing his identity as a man of the people.
  • His fight against untouchability (Harijan movement) and for rural self-sufficiency (Charkha, Khadi) made him a hero to the masses.

3. Myth-like Stories and Symbolism

  • Legends about Gandhi, such as his childhood honesty (“I cannot lie” confession), fasts unto death, and meetings with global leaders, have a mythic quality.
  • His concept of “Ahimsa” (nonviolence) became more than a political strategy—it turned into an ethical ideal, much like the codes followed by legendary folk heroes.

4. Global Inspiration and Mass Appeal

  • Just like folk heroes who inspire generations, Gandhi’s ideas influenced leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Dalai Lama.
  • His principles continue to be cited in social movements worldwide, proving that his folk hero-like legacy endures.

5. Transformation into a Cultural and Spiritual Icon

  • Gandhi is depicted in songs, plays, films, and literature, further elevating his folk hero status.
  • His assassination in 1948 added a martyrdom element to his legend, strengthening his mythic aura.
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Mahatma Gandhi

The Salt Satyagraha: Gandhi’s March to Freedom

Salt Satyagraha: The March That Shook an Empire

The Salt Satyagraha, also known as the Salt March or the Civil Disobedience Movement, was a defining moment in India’s struggle for independence. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this non-violent protest against British salt laws became a symbol of resistance and self-reliance, inspiring millions across the nation and the world.

Background and Cause

The British imposed heavy taxes on salt production and prohibited Indians from making their own salt. This forced people to buy salt at exorbitant prices, despite India’s natural access to the sea. Recognizing salt as an essential commodity used by every Indian, Gandhi chose it as the focal point of his next major protest against colonial rule.

The Journey Begins

On March 12, 1930, Gandhi, along with 78 followers, set out on a 24-day journey from Sabarmati Ashram (Ahmedabad) to Dandi, Gujarat, covering about 240 miles (385 km) on foot. Along the way, thousands joined, transforming the march into a mass movement.

Breaking the Salt Law

On April 6, 1930, Gandhi reached Dandi and symbolically broke the British salt law by picking up a handful of natural salt from the shore. This simple act of defiance sparked a nationwide movement, with people across India making and selling salt illegally, boycotting British goods, and refusing to pay taxes.

Impact and Significance

The Salt Satyagraha was a turning point in India’s independence struggle:

  • Mass Participation: It mobilized people from all sections of society, including women, peasants, and students.
  • International Attention: The movement gained global media coverage, drawing sympathy for India’s cause.
  • British Crackdown: The British arrested over 60,000 protestors, including Gandhi himself, but the movement continued to spread.
  • Foundation for Future Protests: It laid the groundwork for future civil disobedience movements and strengthened the demand for complete independence (Purna Swaraj).

Legacy

The Salt March demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) and became a source of inspiration for civil rights movements worldwide, including those led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

Though India would gain independence in 1947, the Salt Satyagraha remains a timeless lesson in courage, unity, and the power of peaceful protest. It was not just a fight for salt but a fight for self-respect and freedom.

The Salt March stands as a testament to the strength of collective action and the unwavering spirit of the Indian people.

What are your thoughts on this historic movement? Share your views in the comments below!

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Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement: A Fight for Swaraj

Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)

The Non-Cooperation Movement was a mass protest led by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule, aiming for Swaraj (self-rule) through non-violent resistance.

Key Features:

  1. Boycott of British Goods & Institutions – Indians were urged to stop using British products, schools, courts, and government services.
  2. Promotion of Swadeshi – Encouragement of Indian-made goods and self-reliance.
  3. Resignation from Government Jobs – Many leaders and workers left their posts as a sign of protest.
  4. Refusal to Pay Taxes – Gandhi called for non-payment of taxes to weaken British rule.

Impact & Withdrawal:

  • The movement gained massive support across India.
  • However, after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922), where a violent mob killed policemen, Gandhi withdrew the movement, emphasizing non-violence.
  • Though it ended, it laid the foundation for future independence movements.

The Non-Cooperation Movement was India’s first large-scale civil disobedience movement, proving the power of peaceful resistance against colonial rule.

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Gandhi and the Khilafat Movement: A Quest for Unity

Mahatma Gandhi played a crucial role in the Khilafat Movement (1919–1924), which was a pan-Islamic movement launched by Indian Muslims to protect the Ottoman Caliphate after World War I. Though it was primarily a Muslim issue, Gandhi saw it as an opportunity to unite Hindus and Muslims against British rule.

Gandhi’s Role in the Khilafat Movement:

  1. Support for Muslim Leaders: Gandhi collaborated with leaders like Maulana Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali, who were at the forefront of the movement.
  2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920): He linked the Khilafat issue with the larger struggle for Swaraj (self-rule), urging Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and services.
  3. Unity of Hindus and Muslims: Gandhi believed that Hindu-Muslim unity was essential for India’s independence, and the Khilafat cause helped bridge communal divides.
  4. Satyagraha & Non-Violence: He promoted peaceful protests and civil disobedience as part of the movement.

Decline of the Khilafat Movement:

  • In 1922, Gandhi withdrew the Non-Cooperation Movement after the Chauri Chaura incident, where violent protesters killed British policemen.
  • In 1924, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk abolished the Caliphate in Turkey, making the movement irrelevant.
  • The Hindu-Muslim unity weakened after the movement’s failure, leading to increased communal tensions.

Although the Khilafat Movement ended, it strengthened Gandhi’s leadership in the Indian freedom struggle and demonstrated the power of non-cooperation as a political tool.

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Champaran Satyagraha (1917)

The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) was Mahatma Gandhi’s first major political movement in India, marking the beginning of his leadership in the Indian freedom struggle. It was a nonviolent protest against the exploitation of farmers in the Champaran district of Bihar by British indigo planters.

Background

  • British planters in Champaran forced local farmers to grow indigo under the Tinkathia system, which required them to cultivate indigo on 15% of their land.
  • Farmers were paid meager compensation, while the demand for indigo declined due to synthetic dyes, leaving them in debt and poverty.
  • Those who resisted were subjected to harsh treatment, high taxes, and even physical violence.

Gandhi’s Intervention

  • In April 1917, local leaders like Raj Kumar Shukla invited Gandhi to Champaran.
  • Gandhi visited villages, recorded testimonies of oppressed farmers, and mobilized volunteers, including Rajendra Prasad, J.B. Kripalani, and Mahadev Desai.
  • The British authorities ordered Gandhi to leave, but he refused and faced trial, emphasizing his right to serve the people.
  • Due to massive public support, the British had to withdraw the case against Gandhi.

Outcome & Significance

  • The British government appointed a committee to investigate, with Gandhi as a member.
  • The system of forced indigo cultivation was abolished, and farmers were given relief and compensation.
  • This was Gandhi’s first successful Satyagraha in India and laid the foundation for future movements like Kheda, Non-Cooperation, and Civil Disobedience.
  • It demonstrated the power of nonviolent resistance and Gandhi’s leadership in India’s independence movement.

Champaran was a turning point in Indian history, proving that peaceful protest and mass mobilization could challenge British rule effectively.

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Mahatma Gandhi

Role in World War I

Mahatma Gandhi played a somewhat paradoxical role during World War I. While he was a strong advocate of nonviolence, he actively encouraged Indians to support the British war effort. Here’s a breakdown of his involvement:

1. Support for the British War Effort

  • Gandhi believed that Indians should support the British in the war as a way to earn their goodwill and, eventually, self-rule (Swaraj).
  • He urged Indians to volunteer for the British army, arguing that their loyalty would strengthen India’s case for independence after the war.

2. Role in Recruitment

  • In 1918, during his time in India, Gandhi actively promoted recruitment efforts in Gujarat, urging young men to join the British forces.
  • This was a controversial stance since it seemed to contradict his principle of nonviolence (Ahimsa). However, he saw it as a necessary sacrifice to gain political leverage.

3. Contribution in South Africa

  • Before coming back to India in 1915, Gandhi had already supported the British war efforts in South Africa.
  • During the Boer War (1899–1902) and later during World War I, he helped organize an Indian Ambulance Corps in South Africa, assisting wounded British soldiers.

4. Aftermath and Shift in Stance

  • Despite his support, India did not receive the promised political concessions from the British after the war.
  • This disillusionment led Gandhi to launch the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) against British rule.

His role in World War I highlights his early belief in collaboration with the British before he fully committed to the path of civil disobedience and complete independence for India.

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Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi and the Struggle for Indian Independence (1915 –1947)

Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915 and quickly became the leader of the Indian freedom struggle. His philosophy of Satyagraha (truth-force) and Ahimsa (nonviolence) became the foundation of India’s fight against British colonial rule. Through mass movements, he united people from different regions, religions, and social backgrounds in the pursuit of Swaraj (self-rule).

Early Struggles (1915–1919)

1. Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha (1917–1918)

Gandhi’s first major movements in India were focused on helping farmers and peasants suffering under British exploitation:

  • Champaran Satyagraha (Bihar, 1917): Farmers were forced to grow indigo instead of food crops and sell it at low prices to British planters. Gandhi led peaceful protests, forcing the British to abolish oppressive plantation policies.
  • Kheda Satyagraha (Gujarat, 1918): A tax boycott movement where peasants refused to pay taxes due to famine and crop failures. The British were forced to provide relief.

These successful nonviolent protests marked the beginning of Gandhi’s leadership in India’s independence movement.

Mass Movements for Freedom

2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)

  • First nationwide movement against British rule.
  • Encouraged Indians to boycott British schools, courts, clothes, and goods.
  • People resigned from government jobs and gave up British titles.
  • Led to massive protests, but was called off after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922), where protesters set a police station on fire.

Though the movement ended, it awakened national consciousness and united Indians in resistance.

3. Civil Disobedience Movement & Dandi Salt March (1930–1934)

  • In 1930, Gandhi led the famous Dandi Salt March, walking 240 miles to the Arabian Sea in protest against British salt laws.
  • Thousands joined the movement, breaking the salt laws by making salt from seawater.
  • The movement spread across India, with protests, strikes, and boycotts.
  • Resulted in Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931), leading to temporary concessions but no full independence.

This movement intensified the demand for Swaraj and made Gandhi an international symbol of resistance.

4. Quit India Movement (1942) – “Do or Die”

  • Launched on August 8, 1942, demanding immediate British withdrawal from India.
  • Gandhi gave the call for “Do or Die”, urging Indians to fight for total independence.
  • The British arrested Gandhi and thousands of leaders, leading to violent protests across the country.
  • Despite repression, the movement weakened British control, making it clear that they could no longer rule India.

Road to Independence (1945–1947)

After World War II, the British were economically weak and faced increasing pressure to leave India.

  • 1946: Direct negotiations for independence began.
  • August 15, 1947: India finally achieved independence, but was divided into India and Pakistan.
  • Gandhi, deeply hurt by partition violence, worked to restore peace, even fasting to stop communal riots.

On January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist, who blamed him for favoring Muslims and Pakistan.

Legacy

Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance influenced global leaders like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. His methods of peaceful protest remain a powerful tool for human rights and justice worldwide.

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Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi’s Impact on Indians, Africans, and Europeans

Mahatma Gandhi’s life and work had significant interactions with Europeans, Indians, and Africans across different phases of his journey.

In Africa (1893–1914):

Gandhi lived in South Africa for 21 years, where he first developed his philosophy of Satyagraha (nonviolent resistance). He fought against the racial discrimination faced by Indians under British and Dutch rule. His activism brought him into contact with Africans who were also struggling against colonial oppression. However, some of his early writings reflected the biases of his time, which he later evolved from. Over time, his movement in South Africa influenced anti-colonial struggles across Africa.

In India (1915–1948):

After returning to India, Gandhi became the leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule. He mobilized Indians of all backgrounds—peasants, workers, industrialists, and intellectuals—against colonial policies through nonviolent protests like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement.

Relations with Europeans:

Gandhi interacted with many Europeans, including British rulers, Christian missionaries, and sympathizers of Indian independence. Some British officials opposed him, but others, such as Lord Irwin (later Lord Halifax), negotiated with him. European thinkers like Tolstoy and Ruskin influenced his ideology, while some British individuals, such as C.F. Andrews and Madeleine Slade (Mirabehn), became his followers.

Global Influence:

  • Inspired African leaders: His nonviolent methods influenced figures like Nelson Mandela and Kwame Nkrumah.
  • Influenced European pacifists: Leaders like Bertrand Russell and movements for civil rights in the West were inspired by his approach.
  • Impact on India and beyond: His ideas shaped India’s independence and inspired freedom struggles worldwide.
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Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi’s Civil Rights Struggle in South Africa (1893–1914)

  1. Arrival & Racial Discrimination (1893):
    • Gandhi went to South Africa as a legal representative for an Indian merchant.
    • Faced racial discrimination, including being thrown off a train in Pietermaritzburg for refusing to leave a first-class compartment.
    • This incident marked his political awakening.
  2. Formation of Satyagraha (1906):
    • Led protests against discriminatory laws like the Asiatic Registration Act (1906).
    • Developed Satyagraha (non-violent resistance), organizing mass civil disobedience campaigns.
  3. Indian Rights Movement:
    • Founded the Natal Indian Congress (1894) to fight for Indian rights.
    • Opposed the £3 tax on indentured Indian laborers.
    • Led the Great March (1913), mobilizing thousands of workers against unjust laws.
  4. Impact & Return to India (1914):
    • Successfully negotiated with the South African government for better treatment of Indians.
    • Returned to India in 1915, gaining international recognition as a leader of non-violent resistance.