Leading voice for social justice in US Pete Seeger dies

Pete Seeger, who died Monday at the age of 94, was one of the most famous musicians in the history of the United States. His career began in the 19-30s when he began recording traditional American folk songs while studying at Harvard University.
In his music, Seeger never shied away from politics. New York City Folk Musician Michael Weiss describes him as iconic figure in the civil rights, anti-war, and labor movements. In 19-55, Pete Seeger was called to Congress and asked to testify about his and other artists association with the Communist Party and other left-wing organizations. He famously declared “I am not going to answer any questions as to my association, my philosophical or religious beliefs or my political beliefs… I think these are very improper questions for any American to be asked, especially under such compulsion as this.” For speaking these words, Seeger was charged for “Contempt of Congress.” Despite being convicted, and facing a large amount of harassment from the F-B-I, Seeger continued his political activism and music. Because of his controversial political stands, for over 10 years, Pete Seeger was blacklisted, and not allowed to appear on any television program, despite his overwhelming popularity. Michael Weiss Seeger was a leader of the movement against the U.S. wars in Vietnam, Iraq, and elsewhere, and against the proliferation of nuclear weapons. He performed at countless rallies, denouncing militarism and aggression, and calling for peace.