Mahatma Gandhi played the most vital role in the freedom struggle and achievement of Independence for India. The period from 1919 to 1947 is aptly termed as the ‘Gandhi Era’ due to his dominance in Indian politics.

Non-violence was his powerful weapon. He led several peaceful movements including the ‘Swadeshi’, ‘Boycott,’ ‘Stayagraha,’ ‘Non-cooperation’ etc. to achieve freedom. He strove hard to unite the Hindus and the Muslims, though he had to pay heavily for it. The credit of rendering the congress movement into a mass movement goes to Gandhiji.

Before the arrival of Gandhiji on the political scene of India, the freedom movement led by the Indian National Congress was restricted to educated upper and middle classes. But under his leadership the movement was joined by the teaming millions including the peasants and workers.

The non-Cooperation Movement, the ‘Satyagraha Movement,’ ‘the Civil Disobedience Movement,’ the ‘Quit India Movement’ etc. were the movements of the common men. He inspired the Indian people and instilled confidence and courage in them to fight for freedom.