Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born in Porbandar, studied law in London, and first developed his political methods in South Africa while confronting racial discrimination. There he organized Indian communities through disciplined civil resistance and began articulating satyagraha, a philosophy of truth-force grounded in nonviolence and moral accountability. His approach fused spiritual practice with practical political strategy.

Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi became central to anti-colonial mobilization through campaigns including non-cooperation, the Salt March, and civil disobedience. He sought to broaden political participation across class, religion, and caste while advocating self-rule, local industry, and social reform. Though frequently imprisoned, his methods drew global attention and challenged imperial legitimacy.

India gained independence in 1947 amid partition violence that deeply distressed Gandhi, who spent his final months working for communal peace. Assassinated in 1948, he left a global legacy influencing Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and many later movements. Gandhi remains a crucial figure in debates over ethics, power, and nonviolent political action.

1. 1869

   Born in Porbandar

   Born in western India in a merchant-caste family.

2. 1893

   Moves to South Africa

   Begins legal work and political organizing against racial discrimination.

3. 1915

   Returns to India

   Assumes growing leadership in anti-colonial movements.

4. 1930

   Salt March

   Leads civil disobedience campaign against salt taxes and imperial law.

5. 1948

   Assassinated in New Delhi

   Killed months after independence while advocating interreligious peace.