January 30, 1948 - Mahatma Gandhi - a podcast by Stephen Hammond

India's "father of the nation," Mahatma Gandhi, assassinated. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, went to England to study law at the age of 19, where he was shunned by fellow students for being Indian. After completing his law degree, he returned to India for two years before moving to South Africa, where he became the first “colored” lawyer to be admitted to the bar. During his 20 years in South Africa, Gandhi initiated peaceful protests against racism, which evolved into efforts to end British rule when he headed back to India in 1914. There, he led the Indian National Congress Party, spearheaded protests and began a campaign of non-cooperation with the British. Although his activities landed him in prison for two years, they eventually led to India’s independence in 1947. Unfortunately, the victory was tempered by a split amongst Muslims that resulted in the formation of Pakistan. The violence that subsequently erupted many times between the Hindus and Muslims took a great toll on Gandhi. On January 30, 1948, he was on his way to a prayer meeting when he was assassinated by a fellow Hindu who felt betrayed. Gandhi, known as Mahatma or “great soul,” was the father of his country and remains an international symbol for peaceful protest.

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