Armies in Revolution

This book, published in 1973, examines seven revolutionary armies and the balance between political ideals and military cohesion. It demonstrates that no revolution can succeed without an organized army and that few such armies can tolerate the ideology that created them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book, originally published in 1973, delves into a comprehensive examination of seven revolutionary armies, spanning from Cromwell's New Model Army to Mao Zedong's Red Army. Within each case, it delves into the intricate processes of mobilisation and organisation, while also highlighting the crucial balance between political ideals and aspirations, military cohesion and discipline, and social stability. This work stands as a remarkable testament to the study of the intricate relationship between the military and society, showcasing the undeniable importance of an organised army for successful revolutions, and the limited tolerance that such armies can afford for the ideologies that brought them into existence.

The author begins by providing a historical backdrop, outlining the political and social contexts in which these revolutionary armies emerged. They explore the various factors that influenced their formation, including economic disparities, social unrest, and political ideologies. The author then delves into the organisational structures and strategies employed by these armies, highlighting the importance of discipline, training, and leadership in achieving military success.

One of the key themes of the book is the tension between political ideals and the practical realities of military command. The author argues that while revolutionary armies are often driven by a desire for social change and political empowerment, they must also be mindful of the need for military cohesion and discipline. This balance is particularly challenging in the context of large-scale revolutions, where the ideological motivations of the soldiers may clash with the goals of the political leadership.

The author also examines the impact of these revolutionary armies on society and the broader political landscape. They explore how these armies transformed the social structures and power dynamics of their respective countries, and how they influenced the development of new political ideologies and systems. The book also sheds light on the challenges faced by these armies in maintaining social stability and transitioning from a revolutionary to a more stable political regime.

Throughout the book, the author employs a wealth of historical evidence and analysis to support their arguments. They draw on a range of primary sources, including military documents, historical accounts, and personal memoirs, to provide a detailed and nuanced understanding of the experiences of these revolutionary armies. The author's writing is clear and engaging, making it accessible to a wide audience, including students, scholars, and anyone interested in the history and politics of revolution.

In conclusion, this book is a seminal work in the field of military history and society. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the relationship between the military and society, highlighting the importance of an organised army for successful revolutions and the challenges faced by such armies in balancing political ideals and military cohesion. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and politics of revolution, and it will continue to inspire and inform future generations of scholars and researchers.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032164267