Significant defining moments in the life of Gandhi include his experiences with racism in South Africa, where he first developed his philosophy of nonviolent resistance—known as Satyagraha. His return to India marked the beginning of a mass movement against British colonial rule, emphasizing civil disobedience and peaceful protests. Events such as the Salt March in 1930 became pivotal in mobilizing the Indian population against oppressive laws. Gandhi's ability to unite diverse groups under a common cause and his steadfast commitment to peace cemented his status as a leader of India's independence movement.