Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 229

Mohandas studied this in England

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the professional field Gandhi is most known for.

Correct Answer: B) Law

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, widely known as Mahatma Gandhi, is one of the most influential figures in Indian history. His educational background played a significant role in shaping his future as a political and social leader. Gandhi was born in Porbandar, a coastal town in present-day Gujarat, India, in 1869. He came from a family of civil servants and was expected to follow in their footsteps. In 1888, at the age of 19, Gandhi left India to study law in England, specifically at University College London.

The decision to study law was influenced by his family's desire for him to become a lawyer, as well as the potential for a stable career. During his time in England, Gandhi immersed himself in the study of law, which included subjects such as legal theory, constitutional law, and legal practice. This education was not only academically rigorous but also exposed him to Western culture and ideas, which would later influence his approach to social and political issues.

After completing his studies in 1891, Gandhi returned to India and attempted to establish a legal practice. However, he found it difficult to gain clients and eventually moved to South Africa in 1893 to work for an Indian firm. It was in South Africa that Gandhi's experiences with racial discrimination and injustice led him to develop his philosophy of non-violent resistance, known as Satyagraha. His legal training was instrumental in this process, as it provided him with the skills to understand and challenge unjust laws and practices.

Throughout his life, Gandhi's legal education remained a cornerstone of his activism. He used his knowledge of law to advocate for the rights of Indians, both in South Africa and later in India. His understanding of legal principles and his ability to articulate his arguments effectively were crucial in his role as a political leader and social reformer.

It is important to note that while Gandhi's legal education was significant, his later work and philosophy extended far beyond the realm of law. He became a symbol of non-violent resistance and a leader in the Indian independence movement, using his legal training as a tool to fight for justice and equality. His educational background in law, therefore, was not just a means to an end but a foundation upon which he built his lifelong commitment to social and political change.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Mohandas Gandhi did not study psychology in England. His studies were focused on law, which was essential for his later legal and political career.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Mohandas Gandhi studied law in England, which provided him with the legal knowledge and skills that he later used in his political and social activism.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Mohandas Gandhi did not study medicine in England. His studies were in law, which was more relevant to his future work in legal and political fields.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Mohandas Gandhi did not study teaching in England. His formal education was in law, which he pursued to become a lawyer and later applied to his political and social work.

Mnemonic: LAW - Legal Advocacy Work

Back to Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 229 – Practice all questions