Guy Carawan

About the Author

Guy Carawan is a renowned folklorist, musician, and civil rights activist whose life's work has been dedicated to preserving the voices of the oppressed through song and story. Born in the American South, Carawan immersed himself in the vibrant traditions of folk music, becoming a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. As music director at the Highlander Folk School, he collected and popularized spirituals, freedom songs, and anthems that fueled the struggle for equality, including the iconic 'We Shall Overcome.' His writings bridge history and culture, illuminating how music served as a powerful tool for resistance and unity. Through decades of performances, recordings, and scholarship, Carawan continues to inspire generations with the enduring legacy of social justice movements.