Abbie Hoffman

Abbie Hoffman
Hoffman in 1968
Born	Abbot Howard Hoffman (1936-11-30)November 30, 1936 Worcester, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died	April 12, 1989(1989-04-12) (aged 52) New Hope, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Occupation	Activist, writer
Known for	Co-founding the Youth International Party (Yippies)

Abbot Howard "Abbie" Hoffman (November 30, 1936 – April 12, 1989) was an American political and social activist, anarchist, and revolutionary who co-founded the Youth International Party ("Yippies"). He was a leading proponent of the counterculture of the 1960s and became known for his theatrical protests and media-savvy activism.

Early Life and Education

Hoffman was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, to a middle-class Jewish family. He attended Worcester Academy and later enrolled at Brandeis University, where he studied under the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow. Hoffman graduated with a degree in psychology in 1959 and went on to earn a master's degree from the University of California, Berkeley.

Activism and the Yippies

In the 1960s, Hoffman became deeply involved in the civil rights movement and the anti-Vietnam War movement. In 1967, he co-founded the Youth International Party, a radical political group known for its theatrical and humorous protests. The Yippies sought to blend the counterculture with political activism, using media stunts to draw attention to their causes.

One of Hoffman's most famous actions was the attempt to levitate the Pentagon during an anti-war protest in 1967. In 1968, he was one of the "Chicago Seven" defendants charged with conspiracy and inciting to riot following the protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention.

Later Life and Legacy

After the tumultuous 1960s, Hoffman continued his activism into the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on environmental issues and anti-nuclear protests. He also wrote several books, including his autobiography, Soon to Be a Major Motion Picture, and the countercultural classic Steal This Book.

Hoffman struggled with bipolar disorder and faced legal troubles throughout his life. He died by suicide in 1989 at the age of 52.

Hoffman's legacy is remembered for his innovative approach to activism and his role in shaping the counterculture movement. His life and work continue to inspire activists and are studied in the context of American social and political history.

Also see

• Counterculture of the 1960s
• Chicago Seven
• Youth International Party
• Steal This Book
• Vietnam War protests