Gandhi made a significant impact by renaming the untouchables as harijan, meaning "God's people," which aimed to elevate their social status and humanity in society. This renaming was part of his broader effort to challenge the deeply ingrained caste system in India, promoting a message of equality and dignity for all individuals regardless of their caste.
Moreover, Gandhi's commitment to nonviolence and social justice inspired other civil rights movements around the world, notably influencing Martin Luther King, Jr. in the United States. King's approach to civil rights, rooted in nonviolent resistance, drew upon Gandhi's principles, showcasing how Gandhi's legacy resonated beyond India and shaped global movements for equality.