Freedom's Battle (1921)

Mahatma Gandhi wrote this book in order to explain and advocate his political views. It does not refer to his personal life except for what is relevant to his political argument. The work sometimes seems repetitive, though we see Gandhi's efforts to explain, justify and respond to criticism about his political strategy of non-co-operation, which goes to show to what degree people needed convincing and reassuring. 

I read the kindle edition published by the Jovian Press in 2017. The nine chapters are entitled as follows: Introduction, The Khalifat, The Punjab Wrongs, Swaraj, Hindu Moslem Unity, Treatment of the Depressed Classes, Treatment of Indians Abroad, Non-Co-operation and Mahatma Gandhi's Statement, which refers to his statement during his trial in court. 

I personally learnt a lot (and maybe the most) from the first few chapters because Gandhi takes efforts to not only explain the function and importance of the Muslim Khalifat and Muslim rule in Arabia, but also the manner in which it was dismantled. This is a significant observation considering the contemporary climate is a clear continuation of the same motive that resulted in the dismantling of the Ottoman Empire, the Khalifat and the creation of nation states. India later became subject to the same division wrought upon Europe. 

Inter-religious tolerance is a key issue in Gandhi's argument, largely because he saw this relationship as key in creating a united front against the British as well as making the country function successfully. He highlights the inter-religious tolerance advocated in Hinduism (and I add that Islam advocates the same) and this alliance would only benefit independent India as it would create a positive and safe relationship with its neighbouring Arab countries. 

Gandhi notes the importance of valuing producers (people who make things) in society. This refers to craftsmen and women as well as farmers, which naturally protects and elevates poorer civilians as well as maintaining a social (and environmental) harmony. Modern India's history appears shameful and distant from this value. 

A valuable point in the development of Gandhi's personal political stance is his own disillusionment of the British. He went from being someone who was happy to serve them and see the best in them to being utterly betrayed by their dishonesty, mistreatment and corruption. Consequently, he openly criticises the British institution of Empire and details many reasons why. He demands justice and for them to recognise their wrongs. 

In his chapter "Treatment of Indians Abroad" Gandhi mentions the poor treatment of Indians in African colonies and in Britain. This is clearly due to racism. He also discusses his experiences in South Africa but otherwise focuses on India and International British politics. 

To conclude, there is an irony of secular India calling Gandhi the "father of the nation" since he was almost ascetic in his approach to gain independence, which is remote from the notions of secularism. He advocated religious tolerance while currently there is an increase in anti-Muslim sentiment in India due to Hindu nationalism. Gandhi's motivation for his strategy was doubly political and spiritual (religious).