Born on this day in Allahabad, statesman, lawyer, and freedom fighter Jawaharlal Nehru (1889-1964) was the first prime minister of independent India. With mentor Mahatma Gandhi, he was instrumental in helping India break away from the 200-year British rule of his country.

"Do not advise too much: do the job yourself," he taught. "This is the only advice you can give to others. Do it and others will follow."

Imprisoned for civil disobedience and catalyst for independence, Nehru was the major architect of his country's modern government. Known as Pandit, or teacher, he was a beloved, charismatic leader who ruled from 1947 until his death.

"My legacy to India", the leader said, "is, hopefully, 400 million people capable of governing themselves."

An excellent orator and writer, he dreamed of building India into a "noble mansion of freedom" with an open society and economy. The Times of India described him as a "visionary...who single-handedly fashioned India into a forward-looking, modern, secular state."

Celebrating life with optimism, Nehru once said, "We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open."

Trust, with just a little humility.