Gandhi's Struggle in South Africa (1893-1915)

Gandhi's Initial Motivation in South Africa

• After his initial legal case in 1893, Gandhi was motivated to stay in South Africa due to the escalating discrimination and prejudice faced by Indians, coupled with his desire to actively address the injustice he witnessed.

The Moderate Phase of Struggle (1894–1906)

• During this period, one of the significant actions taken by Gandhi was establishing the Natal Indian Congress in 1894. This organization aimed to voice the grievances of Indians residing in the Natal region of South Africa, primarily focusing on issues like the right to vote, the repeal of discriminatory legislation, and the protection of Indian livelihoods.

The First Satyagraha Campaign in South Africa

• The main focus of the first Satyagraha campaign, launched in 1906, was to challenge the Transvaal government's restrictive legislation requiring Indians to register and carry identity cards. This campaign, known as the "Passive Resistance Movement," utilized peaceful methods such as civil disobedience, boycotts, and public protests.

Significant Achievement during the Passive Resistance Movement

• A significant achievement during the Passive Resistance Movement was the South African government's concession to Indian demands for the repeal of an earlier law requiring Indians to carry identity cards. This victory was achieved after sustained peaceful resistance.

The Educational Purpose of Tolstoy Farm

• Tolstoy Farm, established by Gandhi in 1910, served as an educational center promoting self-sufficiency, moral education, and non-violent resistance. The farm provided education and skills training, fostering an environment for personal growth and the development of ethical values.

Gandhi's Approach Upon Returning to India

• Upon returning to India in January 1915, Gandhi adopted an initially restrained and observational approach, choosing to understand the complexities of the Indian political landscape and the existing movements seeking independence.

The Issue Behind the Champaran Satyagraha

• The Champaran Satyagraha, launched in 1917, addressed the exploitative indigo plantation system imposed on tenant farmers. British landlords forced farmers to cultivate indigo, extracting exorbitant profits while leaving farmers in poverty. Gandhi's involvement aimed to alleviate their plight and challenge the unjust system.

Mobilizing Public Opinion for South African Indians

• During the Passive Resistance Movement, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent Indian nationalist leader, played a key role in mobilizing public opinion within India to support the cause of South African Indians. Through his speeches and writings, he highlighted the unfair treatment of Indians, garnering widespread sympathy and support for their struggle.

Outcomes of the Tinkathia System Abolishment

• The abolishment of the Tinkathia system, which involved a forced mode of land revenue collection in some regions of India, led to significant economic relief for farmers. The system's unjust demands and oppressive practices were finally removed, allowing farmers to retain a larger portion of their produce.

The Primary Issue Behind the Ahmedabad Mill Strike

• The Ahmedabad Mill Strike in February 1918 was primarily triggered by the refusal of mill owners to increase wages in line with the rising cost of living during wartime. The strike, led by Gandhi, aimed to secure a fair wage for workers and ensure their basic needs were met amidst difficult economic circumstances.

Prominent Leaders During the Kheda Satyagraha

• The Kheda Satyagraha, a significant agrarian struggle, saw the participation of prominent leaders like Vallabhbhai Patel and Mahatma Gandhi. Their leadership and organizing efforts galvanized the farmers in their demands for relief from oppressive taxes and unfavorable conditions.

Significant Consequence of the Indemnity Act

• The Indemnity Act, passed by the British government to protect individuals who acted against the protestors during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, ignited widespread resentment and outrage across India. This legislation was perceived as a condoning of the brutality and impunity of the authorities.

Winston Churchill's View on General Dyer's Actions

• Winston Churchill, then Secretary of State for War, condemned General Dyer's actions at Jallianwala Bagh as an appalling act of violence. He characterized Dyer's actions as a "monstrous outrage" and advocated for his removal from command.

The Congress Committee's Perspective on General Dyer's Actions

• The Congress Committee strongly condemned General Dyer's actions at Jallianwala Bagh, calling it a "massacre" and demanding his immediate dismissal from the army. The event triggered widespread protests and intensified the demand for self-rule.

The Reform Movement in Sikh Shrine Management

• The Akali Movement emerged due to discontent with the management of Sikh shrines by British-appointed officials. The movement advocated for greater autonomy in shrine management, aligning it with Sikh religious principles.

Key Result of the Kheda Satyagraha

• The Kheda Satyagraha achieved significant success with the Indian government granting a partial remission of taxes and suspending land revenue collection for farmers affected by the drought. This victory demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent resistance in securing concessions from the British administration.

Test your knowledge of Gandhi's life and actions during his time in South Africa from 1893 to 1915. This quiz covers key events, campaigns, and significant figures that influenced his struggle for Indian rights. Explore how these experiences shaped his later efforts in India.