Points to Remember:
- The question tests knowledge of a specific event in Gandhi’s early life in South Africa.
- The correct answer will identify the destination of the train journey during which Gandhi experienced racial discrimination.
- Accuracy is key; the question requires precise recall of historical facts.
Introduction:
This question pertains to a pivotal incident in Mahatma Gandhi’s life that significantly shaped his views on racial injustice and nonviolent resistance. The incident, his ejection from a first-class railway compartment in South Africa, is a well-documented event highlighting the pervasive racism he faced as an Indian immigrant. While the exact date is often debated, the core details of the event remain consistent across historical accounts. The question asks us to identify the destination of that fateful journey.
Body:
Identifying the Destination:
The correct answer is (A) Cape Town. Gandhi’s expulsion from the first-class carriage occurred during his first journey from Durban to Cape Town. This incident, though seemingly minor, profoundly impacted Gandhi. He was forcefully removed from the compartment despite having a valid first-class ticket, solely because of his race. This experience served as a catalyst for his future activism against racial discrimination in South Africa.
Other Options:
(B) Transvaal, (C) Natal, and (D) Pretoria are all locations in South Africa, but they are not the destination of the specific train journey where Gandhi was ejected from the first-class compartment. While Gandhi traveled extensively throughout South Africa, the Durban to Cape Town journey holds particular significance due to this incident.
The Significance of the Event:
The incident is crucial because it marked a turning point in Gandhi’s life. It exposed him to the harsh realities of racial segregation and fueled his commitment to fighting for the rights of Indians in South Africa. This experience significantly influenced the development of his philosophy of Satyagraha (nonviolent resistance), which he later employed effectively in India’s struggle for independence.
Historical Context:
The late 19th and early 20th centuries in South Africa were marked by significant racial tensions and discriminatory laws against Indian immigrants. The incident reflects the prevalent racial prejudice and the systemic inequalities faced by Indians during that period. This historical context underscores the importance of the event in understanding Gandhi’s life and his subsequent contributions to the fight for social justice.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the correct answer to the question is (A) Cape Town. Gandhi’s ejection from the first-class compartment on his journey from Durban to Cape Town was a defining moment in his life, shaping his activism and philosophy. This incident, though a single event, powerfully illustrates the pervasive racism he encountered in South Africa and highlights the importance of understanding historical context to appreciate the development of his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. Remembering this event serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the importance of fighting against all forms of discrimination. The legacy of this incident continues to inspire movements for social justice worldwide, emphasizing the power of peaceful resistance in the face of injustice.
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