Born in 1869, Mohandas Gandhi was the son of the Prime Minister of Porbandar and his fourth wife. His father’s first two wives left him with a daughter each. Gandhi’s mother doted on him and allowed him to learn from her in many ways. She taught him about vegetarianism and self-purification through fasting. His mother also believed in mutual tolerance between all people regardless of religion, background or culture.

At the young age of thirteen, Gandhi faced an arranged marriage and took Kasturba Makhanji to be his wife. They had four sons. In 1888, when Gandhi was eighteen, he left for University College London where he was supposed to train as a barrister (attorney). While he was away at college, Gandhi developed further interest in religion and was introduced to Bhagavad Gita. It was the book that taught him most about other religions including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam as well as others.

In 1915, Gandhi went home to India. He immediately joined a rising movement and fell into the Indian National Congress. It was during this movement that Gandhi’s theories were widely accepted on his three beliefs. These personal philosophies including home rule, non-violence and overall welfare of all.

In 1919, through the efforts of Mohandas Gandhi, a Non-Cooperation Movement encouraged Muslim participation. This movement resulted in a six-year prison term for Gandhi due to the upheaval and disturbance caused throughout India.

Throughout his life, Gandhi was a political force to be reckoned with in his country. His beliefs on peaceful resistance where resistance was necessary drew various and controversial opinions. Later in life, he became involved in a movement known during the post Independence period as shaping India.

Gandhi’s notorious fasting including the task of fasting during various events. On January 30, 1948, Gandhi was shot by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi was on his way to a prayer meeting when he was shot at point blank range. Mohandas Gandhi is still remembered as the "Father of the Nation" and considered an inspirational force when political movements take on a non-violent approach or movement in political realms.