Mahatma Gandhi's Life Quiz

Gandhi's Life

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a significant figure in India's struggle for independence from British rule. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, he spent his formative years studying law in London before returning to India. His experiences of discrimination against Indians in South Africa fueled his desire for equality and inspired him to become a champion of civil disobedience.

Early Years and Education

Born into a middle-class family, Gandhi received his early education at home under the guidance of his mother and father. He later attended high school in Rajkot and pursued further studies at college in Samaldas, Bhavnagar, and Alliance School, Isleworth. In 1888, he embarked on a journey to England to study law. Although he initially struggled with the English language, his determination led him to excel in his studies and earn three degrees from University College London: a Bachelor's degree in Law, a Bachelor of Arts degree, and a Master of Science degree.

Return to India

Upon his return to India, Gandhi faced disappointment when his attempts to practice law were thwarted by racially motivated opposition. This experience, coupled with witnessing widespread poverty and inequality in India, led him to question the role of the legal profession. In response, he decided to devote himself to advocating for social justice issues instead.

Experiences in South Africa

In 1893, Gandhi traveled to South Africa to work as a lawyer. He experienced racial persecution firsthand, which significantly influenced his political views and ultimately led him to begin a nonviolent resistance movement. After being thrown off a train while resisting racist laws, he was jailed and placed in a prisoner-of-war camp during World War I. These events shaped his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which would come to define his approach to activism.

Political Career in India

After returning to India in 1915 following a period of reflection, Gandhi embraced a more active role in public life by organizing peasants and weavers into protest movements against policies he considered unjust. By 1919, he had established the Satyagraha Ashram, where he trained volunteers in nonviolent resistance.

Struggle for Independence and Nonviolent Resistance

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Gandhi's leadership played a crucial role in driving the Indian National Congress' resistance to British rule. Some of his most notable campaigns included the Salt March of 1930, which challenged the salt tax levied on Indians; the Quit India movement in 1942; and a campaign of mass civil disobedience in 1946–47.

These efforts culminated in India gaining its independence in 1947, although it cost Gandhi his own life. On January 30, 1948, he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi's idea of Hindu-Muslim unity.

Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his lifetime, Gandhi remained steadfast in promoting peace, love, truth, and compassion through nonviolent means. His legacy continues to inspire people worldwide, serving as a reminder that change can be achieved through peaceful resistance.

Test your knowledge on Mahatma Gandhi's life, from his early years and education to his experiences in South Africa, political career in India, and his struggle for independence through nonviolent resistance. Learn about his legacy and impact on the world.