Woody Guthrie

================

Full Name and Common Aliases

-----------------------------

Woody Guthrie was born Woodrow Wilson Guthrie on July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma. He was often referred to as the "Dust Bowl Troubadour" or simply "Woody."

Birth and Death Dates

-------------------------

Birth: July 14, 1912
Death: October 3, 1967

Nationality and Profession(s)

--------------------------------

Woody Guthrie was an American singer-songwriter, musician, and folklorist. He is considered one of the most influential figures in the development of contemporary folk music.

Early Life and Background

---------------------------

Woody Guthrie's life was marked by hardship from a young age. His father, Charles Guthrie, was a Democrat who served as Oklahoma County Treasurer but also had ties to the Ku Klux Klan. In 1912, the family's home in Okemah burned down in a fire that may have been set by his father's opponents. The family moved several times throughout Woody's childhood, settling briefly in Texas and eventually ending up in Pampa, Oklahoma.

Growing up during the Great Depression had a profound impact on Guthrie's worldview and writing style. He witnessed firsthand the struggles of farmers forced off their land by drought and economic hardship. These experiences shaped his commitment to social justice and his desire to tell stories that would give voice to the voiceless.

Major Accomplishments

-------------------------

Woody Guthrie's music and legacy are characterized by several key accomplishments:

He wrote over 3,000 songs during his lifetime, with some estimates suggesting he may have composed as many as 7,000.
His song "This Land is Your Land" has become a classic American folk standard and a staple of children's education.
Guthrie was instrumental in the development of the American Folk Revival movement of the 1950s and '60s.

Notable Works or Actions

---------------------------

Some notable works and actions that demonstrate Woody Guthrie's commitment to social justice include:

In 1936, he traveled to Texas with a group of migrant workers known as the "Dust Bowl refugees." He documented their stories through song and helped raise awareness about the struggles faced by these families.
During World War II, Guthrie became increasingly critical of nationalism and militarism. He began writing anti-war songs like "Pretty Boy Floyd" and "Riding in My Car (Car Song)."
In 1948, he was fired from a series of concerts in Texas for refusing to perform a pro-Communist song.

Impact and Legacy

----------------------

Woody Guthrie's impact on American music and culture cannot be overstated. He:

Influenced generations of musicians, including Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, and Bruce Springsteen.
Inspired the folk revival movement of the 1950s and '60s with his commitment to traditional music and storytelling.
Remained committed to social justice throughout his life, refusing to compromise his values even in the face of personal hardship.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

-------------------------------------------

Woody Guthrie is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:

His songwriting style, which blends traditional folk melodies with modern storytelling techniques, helped create a new standard for American music.
His unwavering commitment to social justice made him a beloved figure among labor activists, civil rights workers, and anti-war protesters.
His legacy continues to inspire musicians, artists, and activists today.

Through his life's work, Woody Guthrie left behind a lasting impact on the world.