This Machine Kills Commies, a phrase synonymous with Woody Guthrie’s anti-communist sentiment, is more than just a slogan – it’s a poignant reminder of the turbulent times that shaped American history. Born out of the Cold War era, this phrase became an integral part of Woody Guthrie’s guitar strap, and its evolution is a reflection of the musician’s unwavering stance against communism.
The phrase gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, a time when the world was grappling with the complexities of communism and capitalism. Woody Guthrie’s music, infused with this message, transcended borders and struck a chord with people from all walks of life, giving voice to their struggles and dissent.
Meaning and Significance: This Machine Kills Commies
The phrase “Machine Gun” was used in various contexts during the Cold War and the anti-communist movement of the 1940s and 1950s, often in the name of Joe McCarthy who famously stated “we will barter, trade, or pander for that machine gun” in his “I have here in my hand a list” speech in the U.S. Senate in 1950. However, the most famous one is “This Machine Kills Fascists” and its variant ‘This Machine Still Kills Fascists’ used by Woody Guthrie, and also ‘Machine Gun’ used more famously by another artist ‘Machine Gun’ as ‘Machine Gun’ a famous Woody Guthrie composition written and published before 1940.
Anti-Communist Sentiment of the 1940s and 1950s
The anti-communist sentiment of the 1940s and 1950s was characterized by a widespread fear of communist infiltration in the United States. The Red Scare, fueled by the rise of communism in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union’s atomic bomb, led to a wave of anti-communist propaganda and rhetoric. The phrase “This Machine Kills Commies,” in this context, was a representation of the sentiment that the government, media, and general public saw communism as a destructive force that needed to be eradicated. The phrase was used to convey a sense of urgency and determination to combat communism.
“I never wanted to be famous, I just wanted to have enough money to buy a guitar and a harmonica, and be able to play and sing for people.” – Woody Guthrie
- The phrase was often associated with the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) investigations and the Blacklist, which targeted suspected communists in the entertainment industry and government.
- The sentiment behind the phrase also fueled the McCarthyism of the time, which was marked by a witch-hunt-like atmosphere, where people were accused and persecuted for alleged ties to communism without sufficient evidence.
- The use of the phrase “This Machine Kills Commies” was often seen as a threat, implying that the authorities would use any means necessary to combat communism, including violence and repression.
Comparison to Other Anti-Communist Slogans and Propaganda
The phrase “This Machine Kills Commies” is not an isolated instance of anti-communist rhetoric, but rather one of many slogans and propaganda used during the Cold War. Other notable examples include “The Red Scare,” “I Led Three Lives,” and “The House Un-American Activities Committee” investigations. The use of violent imagery like guns was a recurring theme in anti-communist propaganda, as it conveyed a sense of urgency and determination to eradicate communism.
| Slogan/Propaganda | Description |
|---|---|
| “The Red Scare” | A term used to describe the fear of communism in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s. |
| “I Led Three Lives “ | A 1951-1952 American radio series and a 1953 film about a man who discovers he is living a double life as a Communist Party spy. |
| “House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) Investigations” | The HUAC investigations were a series of Congressional hearings held between 1947 and 1957 to investigate alleged disloyalty and subversive activities in the United States. |
- The phrase “This Machine Kills Commies” was often used in conjunction with the imagery of guns and other violent instruments, implying that any means necessary would be used to combat communism.
- The use of the phrase reflects the widespread fear of communism during the Cold War, as well as the government’s and media’s efforts to demonize communism and present it as a threat to American society.
- The phrase also speaks to the sentiment of many Americans during this time, who saw communism as a destructive force that needed to be eradicated.
Art and Music
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has had a profound impact on the art and music of the 20th century. From its origins as a slogan on Woody Guthrie’s guitar strap to its influence on the development of folk music and protest music, this phrase has become an integral part of the American cultural landscape. In this section, we will explore the various ways in which artists and musicians have used this phrase in their work, and examine its significance and impact on the development of different art forms.
Music
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has been used in various musical contexts, from Woody Guthrie’s folk songs to modern-day protest music. One of the most famous examples is Woody Guthrie’s own guitar strap, which bore the phrase and became a symbol of his anti-communist sentiment in the 1940s and 1950s. Guthrie’s music was a powerful force for social change, and the phrase on his guitar strap reflected his commitment to using his art as a tool for challenging oppressive systems.
Folk Music and Protest Music
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has also had a significant impact on the development of folk music and protest music. In the 1950s and 1960s, folk musicians such as Pete Seeger and Bob Dylan used the phrase as a way of expressing their opposition to communist ideology and their support for social justice causes. This music was a powerful force for social change, and the phrase on their guitars and in their songs became a symbol of their commitment to using their art as a tool for challenging oppressive systems.
One notable example is the song “This Land is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie, which features the phrase in its lyrics. The song is a classic example of American folk music, and its message of social justice and equality continues to resonate with people today.
Painting and Street Art
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has also been used in various forms of visual art, from murals and graffiti to public sculptures and installations. One notable example is the work of artist Barbara Kruger, who has used the phrase in her photographs and installations to challenge the dominant ideologies of consumer culture.
One notable example is Kruger’s artwork “Your Body is a Battleground”, which features the phrase in giant letters over a photograph of a woman’s body. The artwork is a powerful critique of patriarchy and consumer culture, and it continues to inspire artists and activists today.
literature
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has also been used in various literary works, from novels and short stories to poetry and essays. One notable example is the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger, which features the phrase in a passage about the protagonist’s disillusionment with communist ideology.
One notable example is the novel “The Power and the Glory” by Graham Greene, which features the phrase in a passage about the Catholic Church’s opposition to communist ideology. The novel is a powerful critique of both communist and capitalist ideologies, and it continues to inspire readers and scholars today.
Legacy, This machine kills commies
The phrase “This machine kills commies” has had a lasting impact on the art and music of the 20th century. From its origins as a slogan on Woody Guthrie’s guitar strap to its influence on the development of folk music and protest music, this phrase has become an integral part of the American cultural landscape. Today, the phrase continues to be used by artists and musicians around the world as a symbol of social justice and activism.
Symbolism and Iconography
Woody Guthrie’s iconic guitar strap emblazoned with the phrase “This Machine Kills Communists” is a powerful representation of his anti-communist stance, blending music, politics, and social commentary. The strap has become synonymous with Guthrie’s name and a symbol of resistance against oppression, echoing his music’s ability to inspire social change. By examining the symbolism and iconography of this phrase, we can uncover the complexities of Guthrie’s art and its enduring impact on society.
The Design of the Guitar Strap
The illustration of Woody Guthrie’s guitar strap showcases a bold, hand-painted design featuring the phrase “This Machine Kills Communists.” The text is written in a playful, childlike script, with the words “This” and “Communists” appearing prominently, while the phrase “Machine Kills” is written in smaller letters, almost as an afterthought. The strap itself is a bright red color, with white Artikels and accents adding a touch of rustic charm.
Symbolism of the Guitar Strap
The guitar strap’s symbolism is multifaceted, reflecting Guthrie’s deep-seated convictions and his commitment to social justice. The phrase “This Machine Kills Communists” serves as a warning, declaring that Guthrie’s music is a formidable force against communism. The guitar itself, an instrument associated with joy and entertainment, is transformed into a tool of resistance, highlighting Guthrie’s role as a catalyst for change.
- The guitar strap also represents Guthrie’s self-identification as a “machine” of sorts, emphasizing his ability to spread his message through his music.
- The strap’s bold, attention-grabbing design reflects Guthrie’s willingness to take risks and challenge societal norms.
- The phrase “This Machine Kills” can be seen as a metaphor for the power of music to shape public opinion and inspire collective action.
Iconography of the Phrase
The image of Woody Guthrie with the phrase “This Machine Kills Communists” has become an iconic representation of his legacy. Guthrie’s rugged, bearded face and his worn guitar have been immortalized in countless photographs, illustrations, and paintings, often featuring the guitar strap prominently. This imagery has transcended its original context, symbolizing a connection to the struggles of working-class Americans and the power of music to effect social change.
Final Wrap-Up
As we reflect on the significance of This Machine Kills Commies, we’re reminded of the power of art to shape culture and challenge the status quo. This phrase, which once resonated with Woody Guthrie’s contemporaries, continues to inspire and provoke us today, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of folk music and its role in shaping societal attitudes.
The impact of this phrase extends far beyond the realm of music, influencing various art forms and remaining a testament to the enduring spirit of rebellion and resistance that defined an era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the phrase ‘This Machine Kills Commies’?
The phrase originated from Woody Guthrie’s guitar strap, which he designed in the 1940s as a symbol of his anti-communist stance.
How did the phrase become associated with Woody Guthrie?
The phrase became synonymous with Woody Guthrie’s music, as it adorned his guitar strap and appeared in various songs, solidifying its connection to the musician’s legacy.
What is the significance of This Machine Kills Commies in the context of the Cold War?
This Machine Kills Commies represents a pivotal moment in American history, embodying the anti-communist sentiments that dominated the post-war era and serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of folk music.
