No prize was awarded in 1948 . . .
But support for Mahatma Ghandi as winner was great.
Killed then for his determined history of nonviolent resistance,
He achieved remarkable feats in his political ascendance.
He became the century’s strongest symbol of non-violence
For the strength of his piety, leadership and benevolence.
His own ethical and moral attitude, satyagraha,
The “truth force,” did not reject the ‘rule of law,’
But if it were unreasonable or suppressive by far,
That law must be broken: reject its hold, its claw!
Without effect, its merit destroyed by determination,
Authorities would relent and develop more fair legislation.
He used this approach to win India’s independence from Britain.
He believed in religious pluralism but was forced toward ‘partition.’
June Edvenson 