Mahatma Gandhi Biography & Quotes

Mahatma Gandhi is revered the world over as one of history's most transformative and inspirational figures. Throughout his life in South Africa and India, Gandhi was a fearless campaigner for the rights and dignity of all people, whose constant and unwavering promotion of non-violence as a tool to win over hearts and minds has forever left its mark on the world.However, the man known today for his calm, courage, and compassion in the face of oppression was not always comfortable before the crowds. Born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in Porbandar, India in 1869 - he was later nicknamed "Mahatma," for "great soul" - the spiritual leader and father of Indian independence in fact suffered for much of his life from an acute fear of public speaking. Gandhi's glossophobia, as it's known, was so severe that when he faced a judge for his first court case as a young lawyer, he froze and fled from the courtroom in a panic.Over time, Gandhi managed not only to overcome his fears but to turn them to his advantage. His unease at speaking made him an excellent listener, whose humility and empathy allowed him to channel the dreams and aspirations of the masses. His hesitancy with words taught him the power of saying more with less - and today, these words, inflected with the heart and wisdom that have made him an international icon, continue to inspire countless millions across the globe.