In September 1968 , Barthol left the band , just prior to their fourth album . His departure was due to the rest of the band 's unwillingness to partake in the Festival for Life , an event established by the Youth International Party in Chicago that was intended to have the participation of several well-known musicians attract thousands of spectators for the 1968 Democratic National Convention . However , the city refused to issue any permits , and the band members , by majority vote , decided to withdraw out of fear that their equipment would be damaged . After the festival resulted in riots and violent clashes between demonstrators and the police , Barthol 's conviction that Country Joe and the Fish should have held a larger role precipitated his departure from the group and move to England
1968 Democratic National Convention
1968 Democratic National Convention
Country Joe and the Fish