Early Life:
- Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, British India.
- His father was a farmer, and his mother was a homemaker.
- Studied law and obtained a barrister's degree from England.
Political Career:
- Patel joined the Indian National Congress in 1917 and quickly rose through the ranks.
- He became a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and participated in various civil disobedience movements.
- Patel played a key role in the Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928 against the British government.
- He became the President of the Indian National Congress in 1931 and led the Civil Disobedience Movement that year.
Role in Indian Independence:
- After India's independence in 1947, Patel served as the first Deputy Prime Minister under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
- He was instrumental in integrating over 500 princely states into the Union of India.
- Patel also led efforts to maintain communal harmony and national unity during the partition of India.
As Home Minister:
- Patel served as the Minister of Home Affairs and played a pivotal role in maintaining law and order in the newly independent nation.
- He established the Indian Police Service (IPS) and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) to strengthen governance.
- Patel was known for his strong stance against communal violence and secessionist movements.
Legacy:
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is remembered for his iron will, organizational skills, and dedication to national integration.
- The Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world, was built in Gujarat in his honor.
- Patel's birthday, October 31, is celebrated as National Unity Day in India.
Death:
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel passed away on December 15, 1950, in Mumbai due to a heart attack.