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.
Sarojini Naidu's leadership during India's 1930 salt march exemplified the power of non-violent resistance against British colonialism, contrasting sharply with violent struggles for independence.
Naidu's transformative experience at Cambridge fostered her eventual commitment to challenging the injustices of colonial rule through civil disobedience and poetry.
Deep dives
The Violent Assassination in South Kensington
The episode recounts a violent assassination in 1909 when William Hutt Curzon Wiley, a retired army officer, was shot by an Indian militant in South Kensington. This act of violence was rooted in the belief that violent uprisings were a necessary means to combat British colonial rule in India. The assassin, while acting alone, was part of a collective of young Indian men who trained together in North London to resist British authority. The aftermath prompted reflection on whether such acts of violence would truly lead to change or simply provoke further repression by the British government.
Sarojini Naidu's Non-Violent Revolution
In stark contrast to her brother’s violent methods, Sarojini Naidu emerged as a leader advocating for non-violent resistance against British colonialism in the early 20th century. Her pivotal moment came in 1930 when she led a large march to the coast to produce salt, a direct challenge to British laws. Naidu's leadership emphasized civil disobedience and self-control, steering her followers away from violence, contrary to the tumultuous events of the past. Her belief was that such peaceful protests would highlight the injustices of colonial rule and inspire broader international support for India's independence.
Naidu's Evolution from Admiration to Activism
Sarojini Naidu's journey from admiration of British culture to becoming a revolutionary leader unfolded during her time at Cambridge. Initially captivated by British advancements, her worldview shattered when she witnessed the oppressive treatment of women and the riots that erupted over female education rights. This pivotal experience transformed her understanding, revealing the inherent contradictions within the British Empire, fueling her determination to fight for her people's freedom. After her return to India, Naidu immersed herself in the Indian National Congress, using her poetry and voice to challenge colonial suppression.
The Impact of Non-Violent Protest
The episode highlights a significant protest led by Naidu against unjust salt laws, emphasizing the need for disciplined non-violence. A pivotal moment occurred when protesters, despite severe police brutality, remained peaceful, aiming to expose the true nature of British rule. This protest drew the attention of international journalists, leading to a broader dialogue about colonialism and human rights. Ultimately, Naidu and Gandhi's approach of 'Satyagraha' not only galvanized support for Indian independence but also inspired non-violent movements globally, leaving a lasting legacy in history.
India, 1930. Sarojini Naidu is marching towards a British-controlled saltwork; behind her is a long column of protestors all dressed in white. The great campaigner for India's Independence, Gandhi, is now in jail. In his place, he's chosen Naidu to lead this movement against the hard and fearsome British Empire.
Naidu and her marchers want change, and they want to achieve it peacefully. India's fate, they believe, depends on a non-violent path to resistance.
Today, there will be violence. But it won't come from them.
This is the final episode in a four-part series about how to succeed without being a jerk. This episode is based on David Bodanis' forthcoming book How To Change The World, which is scheduled to be published in late 2025.