Between Pacifist Movements and the Birth of Modern Environmentalism

In the postwar period, the world was filled with a collective desire for peace, juxtaposed with the tension of the Cold War and the fear of a nuclear apocalypse. The awareness of environmental threats and the fear of nuclear radiation’s consequences inspired the birth of pacifist and environmental movements. The tragedy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki mobilized Japan in the fight for nuclear disarmament, creating a bridge to international pacifist traditions.

Credits: greenpeace.org

Pioneers of the Movement

On September 15, 1971, before the name Greenpeace was born, twelve volunteers set sail from Vancouver, Canada, aboard the old fishing boat Phyllis Cormack. Among them were Jim Bohlen, Irving Stowe, Paul Cote, along with journalists such as Robert Hunter of the Vancouver Sun, Ben Metcalfe of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and Bob Cummings of the Georgia Strait.

Their objective was to prevent the detonation of a nuclear bomb on Amchitka, an island in the northern Pacific Ocean near Alaska. They feared that the explosion could harm a protected natural, the last refuge for 3000 endangered sea otters, as well as habitats for bald eagles and peregrine falcons. Additionally, they were concerned about the potential risks of triggering an earthquake and tsunami. The volunteers’ intention was to stop the experiment solely through their physical presence on the island. They also brought journalists to document the event. Initially known as the “Don’t Make a Wave Committee,” the boat’s name was changed to Greenpeace during the journey.

The mission was cut short when the coast guard stopped the boats near the island of Akutan due to customs issues. The difficulties, compounded by bad weather, forced the volunteers to call off the effort. However, upon their return, they discovered they had gained significant media attention and popular support.

During the return journey, the crew encountered the Kwakiutl Indians, who shared a prophecy about the “Rainbow Warriors” destined to save the world and recognized them as blood brothers.

The unexpected support received enabled the organization of a new expedition, called Greenpeace Too. Despite the distance and the limited time available, the nuclear test was conducted on November 6. This event sparked numerous protests in Canada and the United States, leading to the decision to cease nuclear testing in the area, which was subsequently designated as a bird sanctuary.

Some volunteers were Quakers, a religious group known for their commitment to nonviolent protests. This Greenpeace initiative marked the start of their direct, nonviolent actions.

The Birth of Greenpeace

The foundation of Greenpeace resulted from the union of these various influences and the collective response to the threat of nuclear testing. The courageous act of sailing to the Mururoa Atoll to protest against French nuclear tests marked merely the beginning. David McTaggart, through his commitment and determination, transformed a group of scattered activists into a globally recognized organization.

The strategy of “bearing witness” at sites of activities deemed questionable, to demonstrate opposition through their presence, became one of the cornerstones of Greenpeace, showcasing the power of direct and nonviolent action.

The history of Greenpeace is marked by these encounters and individual stories, which together formed a movement capable of tackling some of the greatest challenges of our time. From Bob Hunter to Irving and Dorothy Stowe, from Ben Metcalfe to David McTaggart, each person contributed their vision, courage, and determination to create a lasting legacy.

Credits: greenpeace.org

A Legacy of Commitment and Hope

The trajectory of Greenpeace, from a small group of committed activists to a global environmental movement, reflects a history of profound commitment to peace and the protection of the planet. David McTaggart and his colleagues demonstrated that passion and perseverance can lead to significant actions and real change.

The fusion of the peace and environmental movements, symbolized by the term “Greenpeace,” continues to inspire new generations of activists. Their story reminds us that, despite challenges, collective and individual commitment can lead to positive change, supporting the vision of a more just and sustainable world.