Full Name and Common Aliases

Cindy Lee Miller Sheehan, commonly known as Cindy Sheehan, is an American anti-war activist who gained national attention for her outspoken opposition to the Iraq War following the death of her son, U.S. Army Specialist Casey Sheehan.

Birth and Death Dates

Cindy Sheehan was born on July 10, 1957. As of the latest available information, she is alive.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Cindy Sheehan is an American citizen. She is primarily known as an anti-war activist and has also been involved in political activism, writing, and public speaking.

Early Life and Background

Cindy Sheehan was born in Inglewood, California, and raised in a Catholic family. She grew up in a middle-class environment, which instilled in her a strong sense of community and social justice. She attended Cerritos College and later California State University, Long Beach, where she studied history. Her early life was marked by a commitment to family and community, values that would later fuel her activism.

Major Accomplishments

Cindy Sheehan's most significant accomplishment is her role as a leading figure in the anti-war movement during the Iraq War. Her activism began in earnest after the tragic death of her son, Casey Sheehan, who was killed in action in Iraq on April 4, 2004. In 2005, she gained national prominence when she set up a protest camp, known as "Camp Casey," outside President George W. Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas. This act of defiance drew widespread media attention and galvanized public opinion against the war.

Notable Works or Actions

Beyond her protest at Camp Casey, Cindy Sheehan has been involved in numerous anti-war demonstrations and has spoken at rallies across the United States and internationally. She authored several books, including "Not One More Mother's Child" and "Peace Mom: A Mother's Journey Through Heartache to Activism," which detail her personal journey and her views on war and peace. Sheehan also ran for political office, including a notable campaign against House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2008, where she ran as an independent candidate.

Impact and Legacy

Cindy Sheehan's impact on the anti-war movement is profound. Her personal story and relentless activism brought a human face to the costs of war, influencing public discourse and policy debates. She became a symbol of the peace movement, inspiring countless others to speak out against military conflicts. Her efforts contributed to a broader awareness and critique of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Iraq War.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Cindy Sheehan is widely quoted and remembered for her passionate and unwavering stance against war. Her poignant question, "For what noble cause did my son die?" resonated with many Americans and highlighted the human cost of military conflict. Her ability to articulate the grief and anger of a bereaved mother, coupled with her fearless activism, made her a powerful voice in the peace movement. Sheehan's quotes often reflect her deep commitment to peace, justice, and the belief that ordinary citizens can effect change. Her legacy endures as a testament to the power of personal conviction and the impact of grassroots activism.