Mothers of the Revolution

Mothers of the Revolution refers to the women involved in the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp, although the term 'Mothers of the Revolution' may not be a commonly associated title for this event. However, considering the given title, this is what we'll be referring to. As early as May 1981, concerns about the placement of American nuclear cruise missiles and other nuclear arms at RAF Greenham Common in Berkshire, England began to spread fear among the local residents. The airbase was selected because of its central location and the existing infrastructure. This led to widespread protests against the deployment. On the 5th of December 1981, which according to some reports is close to the given date of 5th September, a group of around 36 women and a handful of men from a local anti-nuclear group formed the foundation for the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp. But it wasn't until September 3rd, 1982 that hundreds of women set up camp outside the Greenham Common airbase and stayed for years, turning the event into an iconic symbol for anti-war movements everywhere. Their decision to camp outside the base was largely in response to the presence of the US Cruise missiles. This missile, with a range of over 100 miles, increased the capacity of the American forces to respond to Soviet aggression, but in doing so greatly increased the threat to the United Kingdom and Europe. This concern, paired with the British government's failure to disclose the presence of the missile and the lack of any say the British parliament had over the matter, made the protesters determined to make their voices heard. At the camp, which would eventually house up to 40,000 protesters, women from a wide range of backgrounds, all with the common goal of opposing nuclear weapons and promoting peace, formed unique bonds and friendships. Many of these women became leaders in their communities and used their newfound empowerment to bring people together, challenging societal norms in the process. As the protest continued, women at Greenham Common started a pattern of encampments. Every fortnight, a new group of women, often with little to no prior connection to the cause or to each other, would visit the base and march around the perimeter fence in protest. Often carrying handmade signs, flowers or other personal items to symbolize their opposition to nuclear arms, this action served as a direct challenge to the British government and military. The marchers around the base's perimeter were a source of significant contention with the authorities. As the months passed, the British government attempted to dismantle the peace camp on numerous occasions. The campers faced physical confrontation from the police and the armed forces stationed at the base. In one of these confrontations, police violently dispersed a group of women who were attempting to place a wreath on the fence surrounding the base. In 1984, the 'Bent Double March' took place as a show of female solidarity against the military presence. The protesters, mostly women, marched 80 miles from Molesworth to Greenham Common. This protest was a significant turning point as the women demonstrated their ability to organize, mobilize and make their voices heard. Despite numerous challenges and arrests, thousands of women continued to visit and camp at the Greenham Common site throughout the 10 years they were active. Their dedication to the cause eventually led to the removal of US cruise missiles from Greenham Common in 1991. This historic event demonstrated the power of collective action and peaceful protest in effecting change. The Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp went on to inspire anti-war activists and feminists worldwide. They showed that women who had been marginalized and silenced by society could come together and challenge the status quo. They also brought attention to issues related to nuclear disarmament and the dangers of nuclear proliferation. Their legacy continues to influence anti-war and human rights movements today. Their determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration to those seeking to challenge the power structures that perpetuate inequality. The story of the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and female solidarity.