Vallabhbhai Patel

The next freedom fighter of India on our list is Vallabhbhai Patel, who was called the Iron Man of India. Patel was one of the key figures who played a major role in India's freedom struggle. He was born in a family of farmers in Gujarat on October 31, 1875. Jhaverbhai Patel,  a farmer by occupation, was the father of Patel, and Patel's mother, Laad Bai, was a housewife.

The primary education of Vallabhbhai Patel was completed in his hometown. After completing his primary education, Patel moved to Ahmedabad, Gujarat, to pursue further studies. Later, Patel moved to England to study law, and in the year 1913, when he completed his law degree, he returned to India and started practicing law here.

Patel played a very important and effective role in India's movement for independence. Patel was close to Mahatma Gandhi as his associate, and his role in Salt Satyagraha and Quit India Movement cannot be forgotten. He became the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of Independent India.

His biggest achievement was that he managed to integrate around 500 princely states into the newly formed independent India. This commendable job done by Patel was incredible in itself. It helped India bring these princely states under the Indian Union, which unified India as a single nation.

Sadly, Vallabhbhai Patel suffered a heart attack at 75, and because of this, he passed away on December 15, 1950. Patel's death was mourned by people all over India as it was a huge loss for the nation. The Sardar Patel National Memorial Museum, located in Ahmedabad, is dedicated to his memory and serves as a reminder of his contributions to India's freedom struggle and unity.