1080 Mahatma Gandhi and the Salt March

The Indian Independence Movement was a demand for national freedom that gained strength in the early 20th century, with Mahatma Gandhi emerging as one of its key leaders. Gandhi was recognized for his leadership based on the principles of peaceful resistance and civil disobedience. He conducted a series of effective campaigns to achieve India's independence, and one of these campaigns was the Salt March, which took place from March 12 to April 6, 1930.

**Context of the Independence Movement:**
- India was governed by the British Raj since 1858.
- The desire for independence in India intensified, particularly with the use of India's resources in World War I and II by the British.

**Salt March:**
- In 1930, Gandhi initiated the Salt March as a protest against the British monopoly on salt and salt taxes.
- Despite salt being a basic necessity, the British controlled its production and acquisition through high taxes.
- Gandhi called for the production and use of salt without taxation, urging people to join this peaceful resistance.

**March and Participation:**
- The march began at Sabarmati Ashram and covered a distance of 388 kilometers to Dandi on the seashore from Ahmedabad.
- In response to Gandhi's call, thousands of people started producing and selling salt, reducing dependence on the British.
- The Salt March gained extensive support in India and drew significant attention worldwide.

**Results:**
- The Salt March demonstrated the power of peaceful resistance and garnered global interest.
- The British government faced pressure in the face of this passive resistance under Gandhi's leadership.
- Considered a turning point in India's independence struggle, the Salt March strengthened the national freedom movement.

Gandhi's leadership in the Salt March showcased the effectiveness of peaceful resistance and civil disobedience, making a significant contribution to India's journey toward independence.