author
Frederick J. (Frederick Joseph) Libby
1874–1970
A lifelong peace activist and persuasive public speaker, he spent decades urging the United States to choose negotiation over war. His writing grows out of faith, reform, and a determined belief that ordinary citizens could influence world affairs.
1 Audiobook
What Price Peace?
by Frederick J. (Frederick Joseph) Libby, National Council for Prevention of War (U.S.)
About the author
Born in Richmond, Maine, in 1874, he studied at Bowdoin College and went on to become a Congregational minister before turning much of his energy toward the peace movement. Over time he became known as a writer, speaker, and organizer whose religious convictions shaped his public work.
He is most closely associated with the National Council for Prevention of War, which he founded and led for many years. In that role, he campaigned, lectured, raised funds, and wrote extensively in support of disarmament, international cooperation, and nonviolent approaches to conflict.
Libby's papers, preserved in major archival collections, show the long arc of a life devoted to peace advocacy from the early 20th century into 1970. For listeners coming to his work today, he stands out as a steady and thoughtful voice from an era when debates over war and international responsibility felt urgently personal.