The Influence of Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience on Gandhi

Abstract

Gandhi, the known father of India was one of the leaders who gave his life in the service of his nation. He was a barrister by profession and good debater on every aspect like religion, society, domestic life and soon. His autobiography “My experiments with Truth” gives a clear sketch of his entire life. He led revolutionary movements not only in India, but also abroad. In South Africa he fought for Indians and was commonly known as Bhai (Brother) there. He returned back to India in 1915 and was really disturbed with the conditions of the general masses. He first appealed people to support the Khalifat Movement led by Ali brothers. After that he started Non-Cooperation movement, however it failed due to chaura churi incident. In 1930, he led the famous movement known as Civil- disobedience movement which remains successful movement not only in India but in the whole world. This paper would highlights the how Gandhi was influenced by the idea of civil disobedience.