Peace movement

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Peace movement

Type	Social movement
Purpose	Promotion of peace, anti-war activism
Location	Worldwide

The peace movement is a social movement that seeks to achieve ideals such as the ending of a particular war (or all wars), minimize inter-human violence in a particular place or type of situation, often linked to the goal of achieving world peace. It is primarily characterized by the advocacy of non-violent resistance and the use of diplomacy to resolve conflicts.

History

The peace movement has a long history, with roots tracing back to various religious and philosophical traditions that advocate for peace and non-violence. Notable early examples include the teachings of Buddhism, Christianity, and Quakerism. The modern peace movement began to take shape in the 19th century with the formation of organizations such as the London Peace Society in 1816.

19th Century

During the 19th century, the peace movement gained momentum with the establishment of various peace societies and the organization of international peace congresses. The Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907 were significant milestones in the international peace movement, aiming to establish rules for the conduct of war and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

20th Century

The two World Wars in the 20th century were pivotal in shaping the peace movement. The devastation caused by these wars led to the formation of the League of Nations and later the United Nations, both aimed at promoting international peace and security. The Cold War era saw significant anti-nuclear and anti-war activism, with movements such as the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) and protests against the Vietnam War.

21st Century

In the 21st century, the peace movement continues to address issues such as nuclear disarmament, the Iraq War, and the War in Afghanistan. Modern peace activists often utilize digital platforms and social media to organize and spread their message.

Key Concepts

• Non-violence: The principle of resolving conflicts without the use of physical force.
• Diplomacy: The practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states or groups to resolve disputes.
• Disarmament: The reduction or withdrawal of military forces and weapons.
• Pacifism: The belief that any form of violence or war is unjustifiable and that disputes should be settled peacefully.

Notable Figures

• Mahatma Gandhi: Leader of the Indian independence movement and advocate of non-violent resistance.
• Martin Luther King Jr.: Leader of the American civil rights movement and proponent of non-violence.
• Bertrand Russell: Philosopher and prominent anti-nuclear activist.
• Jane Addams: Social worker and leader in the women's suffrage and peace movements.

Related Pages

• Anti-war movement
• Nonviolence
• Pacifism
• Disarmament
• World peace
• Hague Conventions
• League of Nations
• United Nations
• Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
• Vietnam War protests

See Also

• List of peace activists
• Peace and conflict studies
• Peace treaty
• International Day of Peace