"Civil Peace" is a short story written by Chinua Achebe, a Nigerian novelist and poet known for his influential works of African literature. "Civil Peace" was first published in 1971 as part of Achebe's collection of short stories titled "Girls at War and Other Stories."
The story is set in Nigeria shortly after the end of the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), which was a conflict between the Nigerian government and the secessionist state of Biafra. The protagonist, Jonathan Iwegbu, is a former Biafran soldier who has survived the war and returns to his home in the eastern region of Nigeria.
Despite the devastation and loss caused by the war, Jonathan is grateful to have survived and considers himself fortunate to have his life and family intact. He finds that his once-prosperous home has been reduced to rubble, but he remains optimistic and determined to rebuild his life. 
Jonathan begins to pick up the pieces of his life by scavenging for valuable items in the ruins of his home and selling them. He is resourceful and resilient, using his creativity and ingenuity to make the best of the difficult situation. He is also grateful for the small blessings he receives, such as finding his old bicycle that he had buried during the war.
Jonathan's positive outlook is contrasted with the attitudes of some of his fellow countrymen who are bitter and resentful after the war. He encounters people who are disillusioned and have lost faith in the government and society. However, Jonathan remains hopeful and maintains a sense of civil peace, a term he uses to describe his ability to find contentment and inner peace despite the challenges he faces.
The story ends on a hopeful note as Jonathan reflects on his blessings and remains optimistic about the future. He is determined to continue his efforts to rebuild his life and his country, despite the challenges and setbacks he faces.
"Civil Peace" explores themes of resilience, gratitude, and the power of a positive outlook in the face of adversity. It depicts the aftermath of war and its impact on individuals and communities, while also highlighting the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Achebe's writing is characterized by his realistic portrayal of Nigerian society and his deep insights into human nature, making "Civil Peace" a poignant and thought-provoking story.
The story is set in Nigeria shortly after the end of the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), which was a conflict between the Nigerian government and the secessionist state of Biafra. The protagonist, Jonathan Iwegbu, is a former Biafran soldier who has survived the war and returns to his home in the eastern region of Nigeria.
Despite the devastation and loss caused by the war, Jonathan is grateful to have survived and considers himself fortunate to have his life and family intact. He finds that his once-prosperous home has been reduced to rubble, but he remains optimistic and determined to rebuild his life.
Jonathan begins to pick up the pieces of his life by scavenging for valuable items in the ruins of his home and selling them. He is resourceful and resilient, using his creativity and ingenuity to make the best of the difficult situation. He is also grateful for the small blessings he receives, such as finding his old bicycle that he had buried during the war.
Jonathan's positive outlook is contrasted with the attitudes of some of his fellow countrymen who are bitter and resentful after the war. He encounters people who are disillusioned and have lost faith in the government and society. However, Jonathan remains hopeful and maintains a sense of civil peace, a term he uses to describe his ability to find contentment and inner peace despite the challenges he faces.
Jonathan's resilience and determination are further tested when he and his family are robbed by a group of thieves. He loses the money he had saved, but he does not let this setback discourage him. He continues to work hard and remains grateful for what he has.
The story ends on a hopeful note as Jonathan reflects on his blessings and remains optimistic about the future. He is determined to continue his efforts to rebuild his life and his country, despite the challenges and setbacks he faces.
"Civil Peace" explores themes of resilience, gratitude, and the power of a positive outlook in the face of adversity. It depicts the aftermath of war and its impact on individuals and communities, while also highlighting the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Achebe's writing is characterized by his realistic portrayal of Nigerian society and his deep insights into human nature, making "Civil Peace" a poignant and thought-provoking story.