May 21, 1930
As many as 2,500 protesters filled the local jails for their civil disobedience during a nonviolent “raid” on the Dharasana Salt Works. Column after column of Indians advanced toward the gates and were severely beaten by the native police under British direction. Not one satyagrahi (one who works for justice with courage and sacrifice but without violent force) raised a hand to defend himself; many lost consciousness, and some died. Gandhi (who was already in jail during this action) focused attention on salt as an example of unfair British oppression in his effort toward national independence for India.
