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Mahatma Gandhi

A prominent leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule, known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance.

Early Life

Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, India, Gandhi grew up in a devout Hindu family and later studied law in London.

Philosophy and Teachings

Gandhi's philosophy emphasized truth, nonviolence, self-discipline, and the pursuit of Swaraj (self-rule). He advocated for social justice and equality.

Nonviolent Resistance

Gandhi believed in the power of nonviolent resistance to achieve political and social change. He used methods like civil disobedience, fasting, and peaceful protests.

Salt March

In 1930, Gandhi led the Salt March, a nonviolent protest against the British salt monopoly. This event gained international attention and marked a significant moment in the Indian independence movement.

Role in Indian Independence Movement

Gandhi played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses and leading various movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement.

Champaran Satyagraha

In 1917, Gandhi organized the Champaran Satyagraha, a successful nonviolent resistance campaign against the oppressive indigo plantation system in Bihar, India.

Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement, launched by Gandhi in 1942, demanded an end to British rule in India. It was a mass civil disobedience movement that faced severe repression.

Assassination and Legacy

Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist. His legacy as the 'Father of the Nation' and his principles continue to inspire people worldwide.

Influence on Civil Rights Movements

Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence and civil disobedience influenced various civil rights movements around the world, including the American Civil Rights Movement led by Martin Luther King Jr.

Gandhian Principles

Gandhi's principles of truth, nonviolence, and self-discipline continue to be relevant in promoting peace, justice, and equality in today's world.

Satyagraha

Satyagraha, meaning 'truth force' or 'soul force,' was Gandhi's concept of nonviolent resistance, emphasizing the power of truth and moral courage.

Ahimsa

Ahimsa, meaning 'nonviolence' or 'non-harming,' was a core principle of Gandhi's philosophy, advocating for compassion and respect for all living beings.

Dandi March

The Dandi March, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, was a 24-day march led by Gandhi in 1930 to protest against the British salt tax. It sparked widespread civil disobedience.

Harijan

Harijan, meaning 'child of God,' was a term coined by Gandhi to refer to the untouchables or Dalits, advocating for their upliftment and equal rights.

Swadeshi Movement

The Swadeshi Movement, promoted by Gandhi, aimed at boycotting British goods and promoting Indian-made products to strengthen the Indian economy and foster self-reliance.

Prayer Meetings

Gandhi regularly held prayer meetings, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, communal harmony, and moral values in the pursuit of social and political change.

Swaraj

Swaraj, meaning 'self-rule' or 'self-governance,' was Gandhi's vision for an independent India governed by its people, free from foreign domination.

Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram, located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, was Gandhi's residence and the center of his activities during the Indian independence movement.

Khadi

Khadi, or hand-spun cloth, became a symbol of self-reliance and resistance to British-made textiles. Gandhi promoted the use of khadi as a means of economic empowerment.

Civil Disobedience Movement

The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Gandhi in 1930, called for nonviolent non-cooperation with British laws and institutions. It aimed to challenge British authority and demand independence.

Hind Swaraj

Hind Swaraj, also known as 'Indian Home Rule,' was a book written by Gandhi in 1909, outlining his vision for self-rule and criticizing Western civilization.

Sarvodaya

Sarvodaya, meaning 'welfare of all,' was a concept promoted by Gandhi, advocating for the upliftment of all sections of society and the elimination of poverty and inequality.

Ashram

An ashram is a spiritual hermitage or retreat center, often associated with Gandhi's philosophy of simple living, self-discipline, and communal living.

Harijan Movement

The Harijan Movement, led by Gandhi, aimed at eradicating untouchability and promoting the rights and dignity of the Dalit community in India.

Ahmedabad Mill Strike

The Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918 was a labor strike led by Gandhi, demanding better working conditions and higher wages for textile mill workers in Ahmedabad.

Charkha

The charkha, or spinning wheel, became a symbol of self-sufficiency and economic independence during the Indian independence movement. Gandhi encouraged its use to promote khadi and empower rural communities.

Nai Talim

Nai Talim, meaning 'new education,' was a concept developed by Gandhi, emphasizing holistic education that combines intellectual, physical, and moral development.

Prison Life

Gandhi was imprisoned multiple times during his activism. He used his time in prison to reflect, write, and further develop his philosophy of nonviolence and social reform.

Women's Rights

Gandhi advocated for women's rights and gender equality, encouraging their participation in the independence movement and promoting education and empowerment.

Sathiagrahi

Sathiagrahi, meaning 'one who practices satyagraha,' refers to individuals who engage in nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, following Gandhi's principles.

Hindu-Muslim Unity

Gandhi worked towards fostering unity and harmony between Hindus and Muslims, promoting religious tolerance and opposing communal violence.

Constructive Program

Gandhi's Constructive Program focused on social and economic reforms, including rural development, education, sanitation, and upliftment of marginalized communities.

Fast Unto Death

Gandhi undertook several fasts unto death as a means of protest and self-purification, using his own life as a bargaining tool to achieve social and political goals.

Indian National Congress

Gandhi was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, the political party that played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement.

Partition of India

The partition of India in 1947 resulted in the creation of India and Pakistan as separate nations. Gandhi opposed the partition and worked towards communal harmony.

Bardoli Satyagraha

The Bardoli Satyagraha was a successful nonviolent resistance campaign led by Gandhi in 1928, protesting against the excessive land revenue imposed on farmers in Bardoli, Gujarat.

Harijan Sevak Sangh

The Harijan Sevak Sangh, founded by Gandhi, aimed at uplifting the Dalit community and eradicating untouchability through various social and educational initiatives.

Gandhi-Irwin Pact

The Gandhi-Irwin Pact, signed in 1931, marked a truce between Gandhi and the British government, leading to the release of political prisoners and the participation of the Indian National Congress in the Round Table Conferences.

Poona Pact

The Poona Pact, signed in 1932, was an agreement between Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, ensuring reserved seats for the Dalit community in the legislative bodies of British India.

Salt Satyagraha

The Salt Satyagraha, also known as the Salt March or Dandi March, was a nonviolent protest against the British salt monopoly led by Gandhi in 1930.

Gandhi Smarak Nidhi

Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, or Gandhi Memorial Trust, is an organization established to preserve and promote the memory and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi.

Indian Opinion

Indian Opinion was a newspaper founded by Gandhi in South Africa, serving as a platform to voice his views on social, political, and economic issues.

Swaraj Party

The Swaraj Party, formed in 1923, was a political party led by Motilal Nehru and Chittaranjan Das, advocating for self-rule and representing the moderate faction within the Indian National Congress.

Gandhi Jayanti

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on October 2nd each year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and promote his ideals of peace, nonviolence, and social justice.

Gandhi Peace Prize

The Gandhi Peace Prize is an annual award presented by the Government of India to individuals or organizations for their contributions to peace, nonviolence, and social welfare.

Gandhi's Assassination

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi's views on partition and his efforts towards Hindu-Muslim unity.

Gandhi's Last Words

Gandhi's last words were 'Hey Ram,' meaning 'Oh God' or 'Oh Lord.' He uttered these words after being shot, expressing his devotion and seeking divine grace.

Gandhi's Legacy

Mahatma Gandhi's legacy as a visionary leader, advocate of nonviolence, and champion of social justice continues to inspire people worldwide in their pursuit of peace and equality.

Gandhi's Birthplace

Mahatma Gandhi was born in Porbandar, a coastal town in Gujarat, India. His birthplace is now a national monument and museum dedicated to his life and teachings.

Gandhi's Memorial

Raj Ghat, located in Delhi, India, is the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. It serves as a place of remembrance and reflection for people from around the world.

Gandhi's Autobiography

Gandhi's autobiography, 'The Story of My Experiments with Truth,' provides insights into his life, philosophy, and experiences, serving as a valuable source for understanding his journey.

Gandhi's Teachings

Gandhi's teachings emphasize the power of truth, nonviolence, self-discipline, and compassion. They promote social justice, equality, and the pursuit of Swaraj (self-rule).