What were the strengths or weaknesses of satyagraha in helping India win
independence and self-rule from Britain? Respond in 3–5 sentences. Include
examples from the article in your response.
1 answer
One strength of satyagraha in helping India win independence was its nonviolent approach, which garnered international support and sympathy for the Indian independence movement. This can be seen in how Mahatma Gandhi's Salt March in 1930 drew attention to the unjust British salt tax and inspired Indians to join the movement. However, a weakness of satyagraha was its reliance on a moral appeal to British colonialists, which did not always lead to meaningful concessions. For example, the British government responded to the Salt March by arresting Gandhi and other leaders, rather than meeting their demands. Despite this weakness, satyagraha ultimately played a significant role in India's struggle for independence by mobilizing mass support and challenging the legitimacy of British rule.