Mahatma Gandhi, born October 2nd, 1869, was a powerful leader of India’s peaceful protests against British rule, as well as an advocate for the civil rights of Indians. His non-violent forms of civil disobedience help shape the world today. His dedication to non-violence, meditation, fasting and  vegetarianism can be attributed to his following of Jainism, a nontheistic religion founded in India in the 6th century. In 1984 (age 78), he was killed by a fanatic who opposed his views.