Ancient history

What two paths to independence did Nehru and Gandhi represent?

Nehru and Gandhi were two prominent leaders of the Indian independence movement, and they represented two different paths to independence. Nehru advocated for a more pragmatic approach, emphasizing gradual constitutional reform and negotiations with the British. He believed that this would be the most effective way to achieve independence, as it would avoid violence and civil unrest. Gandhi, on the other hand, advocated for a more radical approach, emphasizing mass civil disobedience and non-violent protests. He believed that this was the only way to truly break free from British rule and achieve complete independence.

Nehru's path to independence was based on the idea of gradual constitutional reform. He believed that if the Indian people could prove themselves capable of governing themselves, the British would eventually grant them independence. To this end, he advocated for increased participation in the Indian National Congress, as well as for the creation of more representative institutions of government. He also advocated for negotiations with the British, in order to secure concessions that would move India towards independence.

Gandhi's path to independence was based on the idea of mass civil disobedience and non-violent protests. He believed that if the Indian people could show the world the strength of their commitment to freedom, the British would eventually be forced to give in. To this end, he organized a series of mass protests, such as the Salt Satyagraha and the Quit India Movement. He also advocated for the creation of a parallel government, in order to provide an alternative to British rule.

Nehru and Gandhi's different paths to independence eventually led to the same goal: Indian independence. In 1947, India gained its independence from Britain, after a long and bloody struggle. Nehru became the first Prime Minister of India, and he led the country for the next 17 years. Gandhi continued to be a prominent figure in Indian politics, and he played an important role in shaping the country's early development.