Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Gandhi chose salt as the central symbol because it was consumed by all Indians — rich and poor alike — making it a unifying grievance that cut across class, religion, and region. Salt was one of the most essential items of food, yet the British imposed a tax on it and held a government monopoly over its production. Gandhi declared that this tax revealed "the most oppressive face of British rule." By targeting salt, Gandhi ensured that every section of Indian society could identify with the struggle and be brought together in a united campaign against colonial injustice.

Source: The Salt March and the Civil Disobedience Movement, Chapter 2

---

Examiners look for three clear points in a 3-mark answer:

1. Salt's universal use (rich and poor alike) → ensured mass participation.
2. Salt tax + government monopoly → symbol of British exploitation.
3. Gandhi's strategic intent → to unite all classes under one demand.

Avoid writing a long narrative about the march itself — the question asks why salt, not what happened. Stick to the reasoning given in the passage. Quoting the textbook phrase "most oppressive face of British rule" scores well.