Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Poet Who Toppled The British Empire
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Oct 11, 2024 David Bodanis, author of "How to Change the World," dives into the inspiring story of Sarojini Naidu, a key figure in the non-violent resistance against British colonial rule in India. He discusses her rise from a British admirer to a leader in the fight for independence, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest. The conversation unveils the strategic brilliance of Naidu's campaigns, especially her march against oppressive salt laws, and reflects on the broader implications of nonviolent resistance in global justice movements.
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Cambridge Riot's Impact
- Sarojini Naidu's perspective shifted after witnessing the 1898 Cambridge riot against women's degrees.
- This event exposed the hypocrisy of British superiority and fueled her desire to challenge British rule in India.
Finding Her Voice
- After returning to India, Naidu initially focused on family life but felt stifled.
- She found her voice in public speaking, advocating for India's rights within the Indian National Congress.
Broken Promises
- Naidu supported British efforts in WWI, hoping for dominion status like Canada and New Zealand.
- British betrayal and the Jalyanwala Bagh massacre shattered her trust in negotiations.
