John Lennon

John Lennon: A Leader in the Anti-War Movement

One of the most conflicting periods in all of American history was the anti-Vietnam War movement in the late 1960s and early 70s. It attracted members from high government institutions, labor unions, middle class suburbs, and even college campuses. The movement gained national prominence in 1965, peaked in 1968, and remained powerful throughout the duration of the conflict in Vietnam. (Platoff). It encompassed many political, racial, and cultural changes in America. Overall, the antiwar movement exposed a deep schism within American society. Within this monumental push for peace in American history, immerged John Lennon. Lennon came unto the scene as a member of The Beatles and eventually blossomed into a solo artist. He is responsible for some of the most popular song of the Twentieth centaury. Over the course of his music career, John Lennon became more involved with the Vietnam War. His music became more radical and controversial through the lyrics used in his songs. Lennon also became an activist outside of music and took his message of antiwar in many different directions. Along with his changing opinions about the war in Vietnam, much of America’s views also changed. John Lennon was able to be the most influential advocators of anti-war through his musical lyrics and his political and peace activism in the media.

It was 1964 and The Beatles touched down at the Kennedy Airport to hundred of fans and mass media frenzy. Their new hit single, “I Want To Hold Your Hand” had just risen to number one on the U.S. Billboards (Coleman 601). It was the first time that the band had landed in America and it was obvious that they were there to stay. An estimated seventy-three million Americans watch The Beatles perform on the Ed Sullivan Show. (Coleman 601). These innocent love songs were captivating the listeners of the teen and adolescence generation. Even at such an early stage in their popularity, it...