CH 22: Gandhi

What was the role of Gandhi in India's struggle for independence?

When Gandhi was in South Africa, he experienced racism from British and became involved in organizing campaigns with Indians, mainly Muslims, to protest the country's policies of racial segregation.  He also developed a concept of India that included Hindus and Muslims which created a political philosophy known as the "truth force". His confrontational but non violent approach to political action were supported widely by Indians, Hindus, Muslims, and people of different classes, views, and scholars.  Gandhi was seen as a magical/spiritual figure who became known as Mahatma Gandhi, the Great Soul.  He was one who spoke with importance and powerful responses that seemed radical but were praised by many people who followed and praised him.  He fought back with words, not physical actions.  He worked on moral transformations and building a harmonious lifestyle while addressing the way the world was changing as it was becoming a more materialistic, modern, industrial, and less religious or unfaithful world.  He was also looking for equality for women especially getting them more involved to support the movement against the colonial Britain rule.  

This historical development of how Gandhi fought back but not in a physical or violent way is how we should be right now.  With all the protest going on not just about black lives, but feminism, LGBTQ, equality, and more.  We must continue to use our voices and have that freedom of speech to use as a powerful tool to combat racism, inequality, etc.  Gandhi never retaliated or gave people any reason to do any harm to anyone.  He only wanted peace and independence from any type of rule and get rid of segregation.  Even til now, we are continuously battling for justice, freedom, and need to come together in solidarity.  We live in a world where there is so much diversity that it should be about inclusion and being immersed in various cultures to be more aware of everyone around us.  Time has changed yet there is still things that have not and throughout history, it is just repeating itself or becoming something bigger than it should.  We know whats wrong and how to fix it but people need to listen and act but not get their emotions in the way of the actual goal.  Growing up, I was always being told about common sense, ethics, and morals yet there are so many people that are still oblivious to understanding why racism, sexism, and all that exists.  If anything, Gandhi's approach was only the start but just like others who wanted change ended up being assassinated which is just sad and wrong.  Fear is constantly being used which shouldn't be the case or reason to act on.  When things seem good, people are relaxed yet its not solved.  We've become so accustomed to our daily routines and focused on our lives but now with problems occurring concentration is now on the must needed change.  I just wish and hope that we get through all of this happening right now, but that means we all need to do our part.  We must continue to be educated, understanding, and grow to become better.