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In the 1900’s, Africa underwent a series of dramatic changes. Governments rose and fell along with leaders. One great leader was Mohandas Gandhi, a name that will forever be remembered throughout history.
Gandhi was a Hindu of middle class ranking. He went to law school in England before moving on to Africa where he joined an Indian Law Firm. Upon his arrival, Gandhi was struck with the prejudice against blacks there. He himself experienced it when he was thrown off his train for his color while on his way to South Africa.
For the next twenty years Gandhi fought against apartheid, or segregation of races. Gandhi protested for equal rights, not only for men but women as well. He was jailed multiple times for his ahimsa protests. Despite the fact that the protesters were non violent, it didn’t prevent the British from brutally assaulting the protesters. Refusing to acknowledge the caste system, Gandhi promoted nationalism and democracy throughout Africa.
Gandhi practiced civil disobedience, boycotting several different British products. He wore only basic clothing of the peasants and urged people to make their own clothing so as to be less dependant of Britain for supplies. He also boycotted salt from the British, instead marching to the coasts with thousands of other protesters and using natural salt, which he was jailed for.
Gandhi was a symbol for Indian freedom. Even while in jail, his popularity increased substantially. Throughout the world, newspapers spread the word. They displayed British officials viciously attacking peaceful protesters. Other countries soon refused to trade, hurting Britain.
Gandhi was eventually freed, and in 1994 when South Africa was given their first multiracial elections, Gandhi became the country’s leader. Indians were given some rights, however they did not achieve full rights until after Gandhi’s death.
Gandhi was a great leader in South Africa. He helped Indians achieve freedom and helped end apartheid. He was jailed various occasions for his protests, but even in jail he continued the struggle or freedom.