Gandhi (Profiles In Power) Book

"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." - Mahatma Gandhi A new approach to the life and times of one of modern history's most instantly recognizable, respected and popular individuals. Gandhi was a figure of unique moral authority who stood for issues which are still very much alive - anti-colonialism, ethnic co-existence, and peaceful protest. This is not a biography, but an examination of how Gandhi rose to power, how influential he became and how he wielded his authority. Mahatma Gandhi was not only the most important Indian figure of the twentieth century, he is the most famous pacifist ever, yet he was also immensely powerful as the leader of India's struggle for independence. This latest edition in the very popular Profiles in Power Series offers an examination of Gandhi and the nature of his often unconventional and controversial power. Gandhi, a statesman who changed the political face of the world, has had a tremendous impact both within and beyond India, and he continues to be revered as one of the twentieth century's moral and political leaders. David Arnold takes the story further, to situate Gandhi in the context of his own times and by doing so, assesses his place in the history of India and in the modern world. Arnold addresses several questions in the light of increasingly critical views about Gandhi's power. For example, how far did it derive from his absolute commitment to India's nationalist struggle? Was his success due to the force and originality of his political ideas and his advocacy of nonviolent action? Can his achievements be explained by political wiliness and pragmatism, or by willingness to embark on new experiments with the truth? Was his power a consequence of his energy and exceptional organizational skills, or did it derive from an inner saintliness, his personal charm and charisma? With Gandhi there are no simple answers, but in this new history, David Arnold provides a better understanding of how he achieved and used his unique position of power. David Arnold is professor of South Asian History, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.Read More