The socialist activist Guy Aldred at a rally on Glasgow Green, late 1930s. Aldred is sixth from right.
The banner carried behind the group is that of the United Socialist Movement "representing Red Barcelona" and offering support to the socialists fighting in the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Barcelona fell to General Franco's Nationalist forces in January 1939.
Glasgow Green is the traditional venue for religious and political meetings of all sorts. In the 1920s, however, the Corporation banned all forms of public speeches and meetings on the Green by enforcing a little known bye-law from 1916. Guy Aldred was one of the most active opponents of this ban. Eventually, after public outcry and demonstrations, the Corporation lifted the ban in 1932.
Reference: 560.77.305
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Museums
Keywords:
bye-laws, children, Glasgow Corporation, Glasgow Green, parks, political activists, political banners, political demonstrations, public meetings, socialism, socialists, Spanish Civil War