Mahatma Gandhi, born in 1869, was a pivotal leader in India's struggle for independence from British rule. He pioneered the philosophy and practice of nonviolent resistance, known as Satyagraha.
His activism began in South Africa (1893-1914), where he fought against racial discrimination faced by the Indian community. Returning to India in 1915, he led nationwide campaigns for civil rights, self-rule, and economic self-sufficiency. Key actions included non-cooperation, civil disobedience (such as the famous Salt March in 1930), and hunger strikes, leading to multiple imprisonments.
Gandhi also championed social reforms, advocating for the rights of the marginalized 'Untouchables' (whom he called Harijans) and promoting Hindu-Muslim unity. He lived a life of simplicity, emphasizing manual labor and self-reliance.
Despite his efforts, he could not prevent the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, which he strongly opposed. He was assassinated in 1948 by a Hindu extremist.