Britain

British Movement of Conscientious Objectors:
The Men Who Said No

In the early 20th century, the concern of working people in many countries about the danger of an inter-imperialist war for the redivision of the world was profound. Britain was no exception.

Long before the outbreak of World War I, thousands of people campaigned against the escalating signs of war and, finally, against the inter-imperialist war itself. Enormous pressure was put on the people to join the war in the name of high ideals of patriotism and loyalty to the British Empire. This made enemies out of those who did not espouse these values. The same was the case throughout the British Commonwealth, including Canada. Working people's resistance to war took many forms, including conscientious objection.

The articles below highlight the organized movement of conscientious objectors in Britain, the men who courageously stood with their anti-war conscience in the face of threats, bullying, imprisonment and death. They said No! and many, including a militant women's movement, rallied to their just stand.

(With files from menwhosaidno.org, UK Parliament website)

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This article was published in

Volume 54 Number 52 - November 11, 2024

Article Link:
https://cpcml.ca/Tmlm2024/Articles/MS545210.HTM

Website:  www.cpcml.ca   Email:  editor@cpcml.ca