Mohandas Gandhi The theory of Nonviolence

Before Gandhi: India Summary A history of being ruled by “outsiders” Strong religious tension between dominant Hindu population and Muslims Did not truly push for independence until after World War I Amritsar Massacre was the turning point in independence movement

Gandhi found a different way to change the world

“Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this--ever in flesh and blood--walked upon this earth” Albert Einstein

Mohandas Gandhi Hindu, Born in India 1869 –2 nd Highest Caste –Died 1948 Earned a law degree in England (1891) Worked in South Africa from –Protested racial discrimination using non-violence Returns to India in 1915 –Called Mahatma meaning “Great Soul”

Gandhi’s Epiphany In South Africa 1895 Arranged marriage at

Gandhi’s vision for change Gandhi spent 2,338 days in jail during his lifetime Argued to use non-violent resistance (civil disobedience) to achieve change Satyagraha: principle of “truth-force” which was the secret power of non-violence

Jawaharlal Nehru Ali Jinnah Can they work together?

Primary Source Gandhi on Non-Violent Protest (1919)

“I believe that non-violence is infinitely superior to violence, forgiveness is more manly than punishment”

Gandhi’s Influence 1920 Indian National Congress endorses civil disobedience (non-violence) as means to achieve independence 1924 Gandhi assume the Presidency of the Indian National Congress Gandhi never OFFICIALLY held political office!

The British Viceroy’s view “ There is no hesitation about him and there is a ring of sincerity in all that he utters…his religious views are…that non-violence and love will give India its independence and enable it to withstand the British Government” “I must confess that I found it difficult to understand his practice of them in politics…” (from a meeting with Gandhi in 1921)

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