Peace and Bread in Time of War

Jane Addams was deeply opposed to World War One and its immense costs – social, moral, and financial. In this book she discusses her philosophy of pacifism, and her ideas for reform in the United States.

Published in 1922, this book describes the author’s feelings about the outbreak of war in Europe, and observing how the situation deteriorated as the terrible conflict wore on. The unceasing and vast expenditures of lives and materiel placed Addams in opposition to the USA joining the war, which led to her energetically lobbying for influence, delivering speeches, holding conferences and meetings to persuade officials against joining the maelstrom of destruction. Her anti-interventionist stance polarized Americans: some supported Addams’ views, while others rebuked her.

The author also shares her ideas on what societies should aim for with peace. Many of her opinions were inspired from experience; Addams’ founded Hull House – a settlement house designed to unite the poor in cooperation with more fortunate members of society. The challenge she issues to the-then new League of Nations is to ensure that the citizens of all member nations are fed and afforded dignity, that the organization devote much of its resources to humanitarian causes which Addams’ considered to transcend politics.