Mahatma Gandhi was deeply influenced by the writings of Leo Tolstoy. Tolstoy`s ideas on nonviolence, simplicity, and the pursuit of truth resonated with Gandhi, and he considered Tolstoy to be one of his greatest mentors. Gandhi believed in Tolstoy`s concept of passive resistance, also known as nonviolent resistance, which formed the basis of his philosophy of satyagraha. Tolstoy`s emphasis on the importance of living a truthful and moral life also had a profound impact on Gandhi`s principles and actions. While the other options in this question are significant historical figures and thinkers, it was Tolstoy`s writings that played a crucial role in shaping Gandhi`s ideology and strategies for social and political change.