Victories Without Violence

by Ruth Fry

Book by Ruth Fry

Paperback

First published February 1, 1986

Reviews

[Theresa Leone Davidson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This tiny book, fewer than 90 pages, tells some incredible stories about ordinary people who stared down hatred, in one form or another, without resorting to violence. With common sense and an appeal to the other's humanity they were able to change the situation. The stories are about that, and some are inspirational; however, it is the stories that are left untold that would prove Fry wrong. She claims that there is never, ever any justification for going to war, and that is where I'd have to respectfully disagree. The book was first published in 1939 so I'm guessing it was written some time in 1937 or '38 - before the world knew of Hitler's atrocities. As I am a Quaker like Fry, I know how strongly Quakers feel about never permitting themselves to commit any act of violence; nevertheless, 50% of eligible Quaker men did enlist to fight in World War II, because, unfortunately, sometimes it is not enough to appeal to the humanity of your enemy. After all, what is there to appeal to when the enemy, as in the case of the Nazis, has no humanity?

[Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this a couple times before but am still inspired by this record of people peacefully and successfully resisting violence. It helps one look at the world in a much more positive manner than the perspective we get from the current news media.