Not nearly as prevalent as it once was, Kas. It used to be extremely, extremely rigid. It has to do with the reincarnation system that most eastern religions believe in. Gandhi's particular work had to do primarily with the "untouchable" caste, as I said, which is the class that performs tasks considered "unclean"; for instance, cleaning latrines. Gandhi insisted that "untouchables" be instead referred to by a word which means "god's children", and made it a point to perform such tasks himself.
As a short background on the Mahatma's work, his ideology was essentially to peacefully, non-violently protest the laws you disagree with, and take the blows rained down upon you for it. Something about "offer him the other cheek"... maybe you know what I'm talking about, there, Kas. I think it's from some book.
He and the Hindus and Muslims of India were repeatedly subjected to brutal treatment by the English police forces, being repeatedly beaten, arrested, and detained. They never raised a hand in reply, resulting in media outcries and gaining all the more support for his cause. (For those who are out in left field, that cause was an India free from English oppression and unfair taxation... somewhat similar to a certain western nation. I forget which one, though... maybe someone else can help me out there. I seem to recall that that one, however, made use of the tactic known as "all out war and slaughter" to gain their freedom. Any ideas, here...?)
Paul has always seemed like a glorified missionary to me. Doing nothing but furthering one's own religion seems like self-advancement...
Abraham Lincoln... interesting. His story of self-elevation certainly is an impressive one. (And, what, isn't Bush good enough for you guys...?
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FDR is a pretty good choice.
