November is Peace Month at your School Library. All month long we will explore issues related to movements for peace in the world, including non-violence, antiwar movements, civil disobedience, peace activism, and more. We will celebrate organizations and individuals who have been champions of peace. We will feature songs of peace. And of course we will share our collection of books and other resources related to peace. Visit us in person, and online, to find out more.
The antiwar movement of the 1960s and early 1970’s focused on the American war in Vietnam and other parts of Southeast Asia. Many songs became forever associated with this era, perhaps none more so than “Give Peace a Chance.”
Although he was still a member of the Beatles, this was John Lennon’s first single released without the “Fab Four.” Originally the writing credits went to both Lennon and Paul McCartney, however later Lennon claimed that Yoko Ono deserved a credit, not Paul. The song was the musical highlight of the “Bed-In” of Lennon and Ono in Montreal in 1969. “Give Peace a Chance” would become what many consider to be the ultimate antiwar anthem.
Of course, many others will argue the ultimate antiwar anthem is John Lennon’s masterpiece, “Imagine.” Look for that in a future “Songs of Peace” post.