Mohandas K. Gandhi
(1869–1948)

Mohandas K. Gandhi is considered to be the father of modern India. Beginning in 1919, he led a movement that united all Indians in an effort to end British rule of their country. Gandhi's followers called him Mahatma, or "Great-Souled."

Gandhi grew up in a deeply religious home where he learned the values of tolerance, nonviolence, and respect for all living things. After studying law in England, he went to work in South Africa, where he was the victim of racial prejudice. The injustices he suffered had a profound impact on Gandhi, and for 20 years he fought laws that discriminated against Indians in South Africa. He then returned to his native country and began to work toward the goal of Indian independence from Britain.

With a policy of nonviolent resistance, Gandhi led the people of India to a number of victories, including an end to the British government's monopoly of salt, and ultimately to an independent Indian nation in 1947.

Gandhi was assassinated in 1948, but left behind a legacy of nonviolence that continues to inspire activists the world over.

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