Activists & Reformers · 21st Century

Rachel Corrie’s Last Words

April 10, 1979 March 16, 2003 Age 23 American
My back is broken.
— Rachel Corrie, March 16, 2003

Who Was Rachel Corrie?

Rachel Corrie was an American peace activist who volunteered with the International Solidarity Movement in Gaza.

The Final Moments

Corrie was crushed by an IDF armored bulldozer in Rafah, Gaza Strip.

Are These Words Verified?

~ Medium Confidence

Fellow International Solidarity Movement activists who were present reported her injuries and statements after being crushed. However, accounts vary and there's no single definitive record of her exact final words.

Sources

  • firsthand Eyewitness accounts from ISM activists
  • other Corrie family statements
  • academic Human Rights Watch reports

Legacy

Corrie became an iconic figure in Palestinian solidarity movements; the play My Name Is Rachel Corrie has been performed worldwide.

activismPalestinepeaceGazahumanitarian

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Rachel Corrie’s last words?

“My back is broken.”

How did Rachel Corrie die?

Rachel Corrie died on March 16, 2003 at the age of 23. Cause of death: Crushed by military bulldozer.

Were Rachel Corrie’s last words documented?

Fellow International Solidarity Movement activists who were present reported her injuries and statements after being crushed. However, accounts vary and there's no single definitive record of her exact final words.