March 12 in world history: Gandhi’s Salt March, Nazi annexation of Austria and other major global events

Throughout history, March 12 has witnessed several events that shaped global politics, independence movements, and international relations. From acts of nonviolent protest to key geopolitical developments, the date marks moments that influenced the course of world history.

In 1930, Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi launched the historic Salt March, a major act of civil disobedience against British colonial rule. Gandhi and 78 followers walked about 240 miles (385 km) from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi to protest Britain’s monopoly on salt. The movement sparked nationwide protests and led to the arrest of more than 60,000 people, drawing global attention to India’s struggle for independence.

In 1938, Adolf Hitler ordered German troops into Austria, resulting in the country’s annexation by Nazi Germany in an event known as the Anschluss. The takeover occurred with little military resistance and marked a significant step in Hitler’s expansionist agenda ahead of World War II.


In 1947, US President Harry S. Truman presented what became known as the Truman Doctrine, pledging American support to Greece and Turkey to help them resist communist influence. The policy marked the beginning of the US strategy of containment during the early years of the Cold War.

In 1968, the island nation of Mauritius gained independence from the United Kingdom after years of colonial rule. Seewoosagur Ramgoolam became the country’s first prime minister. Mauritius later became a republic in 1992 while remaining part of the Commonwealth.

In 1999, North Atlantic Treaty Organization expanded eastward when Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic officially joined the alliance. Their membership symbolized a major shift in Europe’s security structure after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

In 2003, the World Health Organization issued a worldwide health alert over a rapidly spreading respiratory illness later identified as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The outbreak raised global concern and highlighted the importance of international cooperation in responding to emerging health threats.