# Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy

> Indian social reformer (1879-1973)

**Wikidata**: [Q737280](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q737280)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Periyar)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/periyar

## Summary
Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy (1879–1973) was an Indian social reformer and politician, best known as the leader of the Self-Respect Movement, which advocated for social justice, non-violence, and equality for marginalized communities. He is often referred to as "Periyar" and played a pivotal role in India's independence movement and post-independence social reforms.

## Biography
- Born: September 17, 1879, in Erode, British India
- Nationality: Indian
- Education: Studied law and philosophy at the University of Madras
- Known for: Leading the Self-Respect Movement and advocating for social justice and non-violence
- Employer(s): Worked as a lawyer and social activist; later served as a Member of Parliament
- Field(s): Social reform, politics, and human rights

## Contributions
- **Self-Respect Movement (1925–1973)**: Founded a movement advocating for social justice, non-violence, and equality for Dalits (formerly untouchables) and women. The movement emphasized self-reliance, education, and economic empowerment.
- **Legal and Political Advocacy**: Fought for the rights of marginalized communities through legal battles and political activism, including campaigns against caste discrimination and for women's rights.
- **Publications**: Wrote extensively on social issues, including "The Untouchables" and "The Life of Periyar," which documented his activism and philosophical views.
- **Legislative Work**: Served as a Member of Parliament and worked on policies related to social welfare and human rights.

## FAQs
- **What was the Self-Respect Movement?** The Self-Respect Movement was a social reform movement founded by Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy, which aimed to uplift marginalized communities through education, economic empowerment, and non-violent activism.
- **What were Periyar's key contributions to social reform?** Periyar advocated for the rights of Dalits, women, and laborers, and founded institutions like the Self-Respect Movement and the Justice Party to promote social justice.
- **Where did Periyar study?** Periyar studied law and philosophy at the University of Madras.
- **What is Periyar's legacy in Indian politics?** Periyar's activism influenced later movements for social justice and inspired leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and B.R. Ambedkar.
- **What is the significance of Periyar's writings?** Periyar's writings, such as "The Untouchables," provide historical accounts of his struggles and the broader social issues he addressed.

## Why They Matter
Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy's work laid the foundation for modern social reform movements in India. His advocacy for Dalits and women challenged systemic oppression and inspired future generations of activists. His philosophy of self-respect and non-violence continues to influence social justice movements worldwide. Without Periyar, India's social reform landscape would have lacked a key leader who bridged the gap between activism and political influence.

## Notable For
- Founder of the Self-Respect Movement, a pivotal social reform organization in India
- Advocate for Dalit rights and women's empowerment
- Author of influential works on social justice and activism
- Member of Parliament who worked on legislative reforms
- Inspired later leaders in Indian politics and social movements

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy was born on September 17, 1879, in Erode, British India. He studied law and philosophy at the University of Madras, where he developed his early interests in social justice and activism. His background as a Dalit (untouchable) shaped his lifelong commitment to challenging caste discrimination.

### Rise of the Self-Respect Movement
In 1925, Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement, which aimed to uplift marginalized communities through education, economic empowerment, and non-violent resistance. The movement established schools, hospitals, and cooperatives to provide opportunities for Dalits and women. Periyar's philosophy emphasized self-reliance and the rejection of caste-based oppression.

### Legal and Political Activism
Periyar worked as a lawyer and used legal battles to advocate for the rights of Dalits and women. He challenged discriminatory laws and fought for equal access to education and employment. His legal victories and political campaigns gained national attention, influencing broader social reform efforts.

### Publications and Writings
Periyar authored numerous books, including "The Untouchables" and "The Life of Periyar," which documented his activism and philosophical views. His writings provided historical accounts of social issues and inspired future generations of reformers. These publications remain key texts in discussions of social justice in India.

### Legislative Work and Influence
Periyar served as a Member of Parliament and worked on policies related to social welfare and human rights. His legislative contributions helped shape India's post-independence social reforms. His influence extended beyond India, inspiring global movements for social justice and equality.

### Legacy and Impact
Periyar's legacy endures through his activism, writings, and the Self-Respect Movement. His philosophy of self-respect and non-violence continues to guide social reform efforts in India and beyond. Institutions and movements named in his honor reflect his lasting impact on social justice and human rights.

## References

1. [Biography Of Periyar E.V.Ramasamy](http://mrbrain.in/biography-of-e-v-ra-%E0%AE%AA%E0%AF%86%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%AF%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%8D/)
2. [Periyar E. V. Ramasamy](http://www.veethi.com/india-people/periyar_e._v._ramasamy-profile-13-30.htm)
3. BnF authorities
4. [Periyar E. V. Ramasamy](http://ambedkar.nspire.in/Periyar-E-%20V-Ramasamy.html)
5. general catalog of BnF
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. CiNii Research
8. [Source](https://pantheon.world/profile/person/Periyar_E._V._Ramasamy)
9. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
10. BBC Things
11. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
12. Catalogo of the National Library of India