Historical Event · 15 August 1947
Indian Independence
In 1947 India won independence from the British Empire, the culmination of a decades-long struggle led in large part by the nonviolent campaigns of Mahatma Gandhi.
Key Takeaways
- India became independent from the British Empire in 1947.
- The independence movement was led in large part by Mahatma Gandhi.
- It relied heavily on nonviolent civil disobedience.
- It marked a turning point in the worldwide end of colonial empires.
Location: India
On 15 August 1947, India achieved independence from the British Empire, ending nearly two centuries of colonial rule. The triumph was the culmination of a long struggle led, above all, by Mahatma Gandhi.
Gandhi’s strategy of nonviolent civil disobedience — mass non-cooperation, boycotts and peaceful protest — mobilized millions and proved that an empire could be confronted without taking up arms. Indian independence became a landmark in the global decline of colonialism and an inspiration to freedom and civil-rights movements around the world.
Outcome
Independence of India (and Pakistan) from British rule.
Significance
A landmark in the global decline of colonial empires and a triumph of mass nonviolent resistance.
Key Figures
Frequently Asked Questions
How did India gain independence?
India gained independence from Britain in 1947 after a decades-long struggle led in large part by Mahatma Gandhi's nonviolent civil disobedience movement.