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The history of Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the "Father of the Nation" in India, is deeply intertwined with the struggle for Indian independence and the broader movements for social justice and nonviolent resistance. Here's an overview of his life and legacy: Early Life: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in present-day Gujarat, India. He was born into a Hindu merchant caste family and was raised in a devout household. Gandhi received his early education in India and later studied law in London, England. Early Activism: Gandhi's activism began in South Africa, where he lived and worked as a lawyer for over two decades. During his time in South Africa, Gandhi experienced racial discrimination and injustice firsthand, which shaped his commitment to fighting against oppression. He became involved in various civil rights campaigns, advocating for the rights of Indian immigrants and challenging discriminatory laws. Satyagraha and Nonviolent Resistance: Gandhi developed his philosophy of Satyagraha, or "truth force," which emphasized the power of nonviolent resistance as a means of achieving social and political change. He believed in the principle of Ahimsa, or nonviolence, and used it as a guiding principle in his activism. Return to India: In 1915, Gandhi returned to India and became actively involved in the Indian independence movement. He emerged as a prominent leader, advocating for the rights of India's rural and marginalized communities and organizing campaigns against British colonial rule. Salt March and Civil Disobedience: One of Gandhi's most famous acts of civil disobedience was the Salt March in 1930. In protest against the British salt monopoly, Gandhi and his followers marched 240 miles to the coastal town of Dandi, where they produced salt from seawater, defying British law. The Salt March drew international attention to the Indian independence movement and inspired similar acts of civil disobedience. Role in Indian Independence: Gandhi played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence from British rule. Through his leadership and advocacy for nonviolent resistance, he mobilized millions of Indians from all walks of life to participate in the freedom struggle. His philosophy of nonviolence and civil disobedience proved instrumental in India gaining independence in 1947. Legacy: Mahatma Gandhi's legacy extends far beyond India's independence. He is revered as a global icon of peace, nonviolence, and social justice. His teachings continue to inspire movements for human rights, civil rights, and freedom around the world. Gandhi's birthday, October 2nd, is celebrated as the International Day of Nonviolence. Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings continue to resonate with people across the globe, reminding us of the power of compassion, truth, and nonviolent action in the pursuit of a more just and peaceful world.