Anarchist Portraits

Rating:
Summary: An excellent study of anarchists
Review: Paul Avrich is the best mainstream historian of anarchism out there. This book is a vital addition to anybody's library if they want a clue about anarchism, which is so often shrouded in myth and mystery.

The book traces the history and culture of anarchism, tracing its progression during its "Golden Age" (the 19th century, mostly) and the early 20th century.

Anarchists were originally called "internationalists", and this is brought to bear in Avrich's portraits. It follows various anarchists from disparate cultures and countries, from Russia and the Ukraine, to the USA, to Italian, French, Brazilian, Mexican, Australian, and Jewish immigrant anarchism.

It brings out the international flavor that permeates anarchism, showing it to be a very human movement, rather than the product of any given nationality. The photographs inside are good as well, putting a human face on various prominent anarchists.

If anything, this book will whet your appetite regarding anarchism. You'll want to read and learn more about it.