1. Early Political Activism:
- While working as a lawyer in South Africa, Gandhi became involved in politics by campaigning for the rights of Indian immigrants and organizing non-violent protests against discriminatory laws.
2. Return to India:
- Upon his return to India in 1915, Gandhi joined the Indian National Congress (INC), which was the leading political organization seeking self-rule from British colonial rule.
3. Non-Cooperation Movement:
- In 1920, Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, urging Indians to boycott British goods, services, and institutions as a form of peaceful protest against British rule.
4. Civil Disobedience Movement:
- The Salt Satyagraha, also known as the Civil Disobedience Movement, began in 1930 when Gandhi led a march to the sea to make salt in defiance of the British salt monopoly. This act of civil disobedience sparked mass protests across India.
5. Round Table Conferences:
- Gandhi participated in the Round Table Conferences in London in 1930 and 1931, where he represented the INC in discussions with the British government regarding India's future constitutional status.
6. Quit India Movement:
- In 1942, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, demanding complete independence from British rule. He was arrested and imprisoned for nearly two years by the British authorities.
7. Partition of India:
- Gandhi opposed the partition of India, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan in 1947. He believed that a united, independent India would be stronger and more inclusive.
8. Post-Independence Role:
- After India's independence in 1947, Gandhi played a key role in promoting peace and unity among different religious and ethnic communities in the country.
9. Assassination:
- Tragically, Gandhi's political activism came to an end when he was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by a Hindu nationalist who opposed his inclusive vision for India.
Throughout his life, Mahatma Gandhi's political positions were characterized by his commitment to non-violent civil disobedience, promoting social justice, and achieving independence for India while advocating for unity and peace. His legacy as a political leader continues to inspire people around the world in the pursuit of social change and justice.