This plainly-written history examines the scope and influence of pacifism in the United States from the landing of the Mayflower till the early 1970's. Representing a "relative handful in the annals of American history," the pacifists, war resisters and conscientious objectors who put their consciences ahead of their country's beliefs usually paid a steep price. This chronological exposition of the ups and downs of pacifist organizations is as much about valorous, nonviolent action as it is about shocking governmental repression and searing popular intolerance of those who refuse to support war. A concluding chapter reporting on a then-contemporary research study of conscientious objectors to the Viet Nam War highlights the idealism and love of country that pacifists through the ages have in common.