Mahatma Gandhi Leaves Tolstoy Farm in 1913

Name: Mahatma Gandhi Leaves Tolstoy Farm in 1913
Start: 1869-01-02
Location: Unspecified

The Significance of Tolstoy Farm in Gandhi's Life

Gandhi at Tolstoy Farm

In 1910, Mahatma Gandhi established Tolstoy Farm near Johannesburg, South Africa, as a communal settlement for Indian laborers suffering under oppressive laws. Named after the esteemed Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, this farm was a sanctuary where Gandhi could articulate his philosophies of non-violence and communal living.

Growth and Community at Tolstoy Farm

The community at Tolstoy Farm was marked by a spirit of cooperation and self-sufficiency. Under Gandhi's guidance, residents engaged in organic farming, while practicing essential humanitarian principles. This establishing of Tolstoy Farm was foundational in enriching Gandhi's ideas about community, equality, and social justice.

The Departure from Tolstoy Farm in 1913

Reasons Behind Gandhi's Departure

In 1913, Mahatma Gandhi made the significant decision to leave Tolstoy Farm amidst growing tensions and injustices faced by the Indian populace in South Africa. The increasing pressure from colonial authorities and the urgent need to address the grievances of Indian workers prompted Gandhi to relocate and intensify his activism.

Impact on Gandhi's Activism

Leaving Tolstoy Farm marked a turning point in Gandhi’s activism, as he sought to advocate more vigorously for Indian rights in South Africa. This period catalyzed the South African Indian Congress and led to key movements against discriminatory laws, solidifying his role as a prominent leader in the fight for justice.

Fun Fact

An Interesting Fact about Gandhi's Time at Tolstoy Farm

During his time at Tolstoy Farm, Gandhi famously introduced the concept of Satyagraha, a philosophy of nonviolent resistance. This principle would later become the cornerstone of his struggle for India's independence and inspire civil rights movements around the world.