Peace: The Biography of a Symbol

by Ken Kolsbun

Book Overview

As the boomer generation moves onward through the milestones of life, 1960s nostalgia holds tremendous meaning today. And nothing more eloquently symbolizes the counterculture era than the peace sign.... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1426202946
• Release Date: April 2008
• Publisher: National Geographic
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 1.98 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 0.7" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

absorbing

From infancy to today which includes the entire world and their acceptance. Usage of the peace sign for personal and professional gains. Longevity of the peace sign which included many short stories from personal views.

History of a Living Symbol

Many times during my life, I've been asked the origin and exact meaning of "the peace symbol." This book tells the story, with many photographs, since the inception of this symbol up to our decidedly unpeaceful present. Gerald Holtom created this symbol for use by the CND--Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament--in the United Kingdom. The symbol is a combination of the positions for signaling via flags (semaphore) to show the letters 'n' and 'd'--as in 'nuclear disarmament.' That's the original meaning, and the origin of this universally recognized symbol comes from the inspired work and heartfelt dedication of one man. I commend this book for the wealth of its images, as well as a survey of major events related to wars, peace, and the ongoing struggle to make our planet peaceful.

so groovy!

This was a Christmas gift for my niece... I'd noticed her wearing various items with the peace symbol so I ordered this book. She is crazy about it... it is filled with tons of fantastic photos and informative history about this symbol. Groovy!

Great bedside read...

I really enjoyed reading this book last month, and learned much at the same time. I kept it by my bed, and found the history of the peace sign, and the great images and graphics, a welcome source of at least a little hope and inspiration, especially after watching the evening's national and world news programs. As corporations continue to profit from the merchandise of death, and the world faces as uncertain a future as ever, the peace sign will continue to be a show of hope and defiance against those who live by the sword (and those who make and sell the swords)!

GREAT BOOK

This is a great book that shows the history of the peace symbol. Nice photos and is well written. I bought a few copies to hand out to teachers for their classtrooms. A good history lesson.