Written Product

Jonathan Burgos
2/24/12
English 1
Mr. Williams

                    Mahatma Gandhi

    Words once said by a wise man with a dream “man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act” Mahatma Gandhi” BeyondBooks.com Ghandi Fight for Independence). Mahatma Gandhi is the father of Indian independence and the pioneer for the concept of nonviolent protest but what role does he play in the American Dream? Well for one Gandhi was one of the first to ever protest against discrimination,civil disobedience and injustice creating a domino effect of movements ultimately winning the fight for India’s independence. On the ABC-CLIO website it states that, “He was an apostle of nonviolence and civil disobedience, proving that these ideals could unite diverse peoples and accomplish great progress” (ABC-CLIO “Gandhi”). After his death  methods of nonviolent civil disobedience were adopted by protagonists of civil rights in the United States and by many protest movements throughout the world.

The American Dream is a promise that America has made to the world to have the freedom in making your dream a reality. Gandhi is of great relation to the American Dream because Gandhi protested for India’s independence so that the people of India can be free from the british rule. He ultimately succeeded and changed laws so citizens can have liberty. Gandhi’s aim for political change and views on civil rights kick started India’s government  to success, transforming it to what it is today. The Declaration of Independence states that “ All men are created equal” Gandhi fought for equality using intelligence and ethics to create  peace amongst classes of India that had no power. Equality,peace and the opportunity of life and its misfortunes is what Gandhi envisioned as country with independence and that’s what he fought for.

Gandhi's influenced many great  leaders including Martin Luther King. The very famous    method of nonviolent protest has been used throughout history and is also the reason many people have equal rights today. For example the American Civil Right Movement adopted the concept of nonviolent protest and used it a combatant against segregation. As a result Martin Luther King ended segregation and changed many laws in the process. Dr.King was undoubtedly heavily influenced by Gandhi and both fought for civil rights while changing the world in the process.

      Gandhi inspired so many because he practiced what he preached. He lived the change he wanted to see in the world and his message was none other than his life itself. He was an honest seeker of truth, a fearless defender of the weak and radical practitioner of nonviolence. I personally have been inspired by Gandhi and his teachings. I have learned so far that harmful moves are not always the key but by purifying your thoughts and actions you will be living in complete tranquil.

I believe Gandhi has revolutionized the world purposely leaving  behind a  legacy of change, hope and opportunity. The American Dream is not a guarantee  to all citizens but the fact that you have the choice to make that decision is one. Gandhi was never a citizen of America but he knew that if you work hard enough you can make anything happen.  Gandhi fought for his country’s independence more than 75% of  India protested alongside him. That alone is a American Dream.