Explanation: Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in the Indian independence movement, returned to India in 1915 after spending 21 years in South Africa. This return was a pivotal moment in the history of India's struggle for independence. Gandhi's experiences in South Africa were formative, as he developed his philosophy of non-violent resistance, known as Satyagraha, which he later applied in India.
Gandhi's time in South Africa was marked by his involvement in the struggle against racial discrimination and the fight for the rights of Indians living there. He organized protests and campaigns that were instrumental in raising awareness about the injustices faced by Indians in South Africa. These experiences and the strategies he developed there were crucial in shaping his approach to the Indian independence movement.
Upon his return to India in 1915, Gandhi was already a well-known figure due to his work in South Africa. He quickly became involved in the Indian National Congress and began to apply his philosophy of non-violent resistance to the Indian struggle for independence. His leadership and the methods he introduced, such as civil disobedience and non-cooperation, played a significant role in the eventual achievement of Indian independence in 1947.
Understanding the timeline of Gandhi's life and his contributions to the Indian independence movement is essential for comprehending the broader context of India's struggle for freedom. The year 1915 marks a critical turning point in this history, as it was the year when Gandhi's experiences and philosophy began to influence the Indian independence movement significantly.
In summary, the correct answer is 1915, as this is the year when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, bringing with him the philosophy and strategies that would later become central to the Indian independence movement.