The 1969 peace rally

The biggest demonstration in Boston's history brought the Vietnam Moratorium Day activities to Boston Common in 1969 as an estimated 100,000 persons shouted in cadence that they wanted the Vietnam war ended "Now!"Globe File Photo/Boston Globe

The Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam on Oct. 15, 1969, was a huge gathering of antiwar protesters across the United States. Boston had the largest turnout in the country with an estimated 100,000 people assembled at the Boston Common. This was the largest demonstration in Boston’s history. The peace rallies put the antiwar movement in the national spotlight and in the thoughts of mainstream America. Although it made a bold statement, their message was not heard, as the war continued on for several years. - Leanne Burden and Lisa Tuite