Leo Tolstoy was born on 9th September 1828. He was a Russian author, novelist and social reformer whose profound commitment to nonviolence and social justice left a lasting mark on global peace movements.

Leo’s early life was characterised by his experiences during the Crimean War, particularly witnessing the brutal realities of battle, which catalysed a transformative shift in his worldview.

He became a fervent advocate for pacifism, rejecting the state’s authority and the institution of war. In his later years, his writings emphasised the moral imperative of nonviolent resistance.

Leo’s 1894 work, The Kingdom of God Is Within You, articulates his philosophy that true Christian teachings advocate for nonresistance to evil through force. This doctrine profoundly influenced Mahatma Gandhi, who acknowledged Leo as “the greatest apostle of non-violence that the present age has produced.”

Leo’s advocacy extended beyond theoretical discourse; he actively supported persecuted communities. He championed the Doukhobors, a Christian sect known for their pacifist beliefs, bringing international attention to their plight and facilitating their migration to Canada to escape Russian oppression.

Through his literary masterpieces, he explored themes of morality, human suffering, and the quest for inner peace. His novels, such as War and Peace and Anna Karenina, delve into the complexities of human nature and the societal forces that drive conflict.

Leo’s later works, such as Resurrection, critiqued institutionalised religion and the justice system, advocating for personal responsibility and ethical living.

Leo Tolstoy’s unwavering dedication to peace, both in his personal life and through his influential writings, has inspired countless individuals and movements committed to nonviolence and social reform.