Political leader and activist revered as a nonviolent leader of Indian independence. He studied law in England, then spent several years in South Africa defending the rights of immigrants. He returned to India and became the leader of the Indian National Congress. He urged nonviolence and civil disobedience as a means to independence, with public acts of defiance that resulted in his incarceration several times. In 1947 he participated in the postwar negotiations that led to Indian independence. He was assassinated by a Hindu fanatic in 1948. ALS signed “M. K. Gandhi,” one page, 7 x 7.5, January 1, 1935. Polite letter of response from Gandhi to friends. In full, “I reciprocate the good wishes kindly sent by you. I shall be ready to meet you wherever you are but by appointment. With regards to you & Mrs. Barnes.” In fine condition, with several mailing folds, one through first initial of signature, a few trivial wrinkles, and ink varying in shade a bit. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
