author
George R. (George Ross) Kirkpatrick
1867–1937
An educator, anti-militarist writer, and Socialist activist, he brought his political convictions directly into his books and pamphlets. His work is remembered for its sharp, plainspoken attacks on war and inequality.
1 Audiobook
War—What For?
by George R. (George Ross) Kirkpatrick
About the author
George Ross Kirkpatrick (February 24, 1867 – March 23, 1937) was an American writer, educator, and political activist. He is best known as an anti-militarist author and as the Socialist Party of America’s vice presidential nominee in 1916.
His writing focused on war, class, and social justice, and he published books and pamphlets including War: What For? and Is Plenty Too Much for the Common People? The mix of argument, activism, and accessible language in his work helped make him a recognizable voice in early 20th-century American radical politics.
Beyond his books, Kirkpatrick was active in socialist organizing and public life for many years. That broader political career gives his writing extra force: his books were not side projects, but part of a lifelong effort to challenge militarism and economic inequality.