Mahatma Gandhi's Influence and Ideas

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Mahatma Gandhi's Influence and Ideas Mahatma Gandhi was a man of faith and great conviction. He was born into an average Hindu family in India. Like most teenagers he had a rebellious stage when he smoked, spent time with girls and ate meat (forbidden to strict Hindus). The young Gandhi changed as a person while earning a living as a lawyer in South Africa. He came in contact with the apartheid and the future Mahatma began to emerge, one who championed the truth through non-violent resistance. It was between 1915 and his assassination in 1945 that he struggled for India's freedom. Gandhi's teachings of non-violent resistance, known as satyagraha, has had a lasting effect and influence on the world today. He has been the role model for many famous, influential people such as American civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. and former South African President Nelson Mandela. His continued influence can still be felt today in many non-violent peace organizations around the world bearing his name or teaching his philosophy. Gandhi has obviously had the greatest influence in India and South Africa where he worked for the rights of Indian citizens under British rule. While working in South Africa Gandhi experienced first hand the oppression Indian immigrants were facing. In 1984 he organized the Natal Indian Congress to help the Indian community in South Africa. Gandhi's ability as a leader first showed itself during the Anglo-Boer War in 1899 when he had over 1000 Indians serving under him in the Ambulance Corps to help the injured on the British Side. It was in 1906 while working in his law office in Johannesburg that Gandhi invented the satyagraha. "The term meant Indians would stand up against injustice and would carr... ... middle of paper ... ... research, studies, writings, teaching, education and scholarship in international understanding based on the teachings, philosophies, activities and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. They establish, maintain and support academic chairs, lectureships, professorships, exchanges and assistantships on their own account and in conjunction with other institutions. Mahatma Gandhi has had a lasting effect on our world today. His philosophy and ideals have been adopted by many prominent figures in society. A powerful leader, he helped two countries in their struggle for basic rights. Gandhi is an amazing example of the things that can be achieved without violence. He proved that satyagraha is a powerful path to victory. Since his time many leaders have been inspired by his example and anyone who tries to change the world for the better using peaceful means owes something to Gandhi.

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