Long '68: Radical Protest and Its Enemies

The Long 68 is a book that explores the legacy of 1968, highlighting the revolutionary protests that took place across the western world and their profound long-term implications. It shows how the events of that year stemmed from histories and societies that are remote from our own, and explores the violent forms of radicalization that stemmed from 1968 and the brutal reactions from those in power that brought the era to an end.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Long 68: An Unfinished Revolution

"The Long 68" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the events of 1968, revealing that the year continues to hold significant importance and relevance, despite its passage of half a century. Authored by Andrew Hussey, the Financial Times, the book offers a profound and insightful account of a moment in history that deserves to be dwelt upon.

Andrew Marr, The Times, also praised the book, stating that it provides a thoughtful and readable exploration of a historical period that demands attention. The year 1968 witnessed an extraordinary range of protests across much of the western world. Some of these protests were genuinely revolutionary, with around ten million French workers going on strike, causing the entire state to teeter on the brink of collapse.

In addition to the revolutionary movements, 1968 saw the emergence of various other social and political movements, including terrorist groups, feminist collectives, and gay rights activists. These movements could all trace important roots back to 1968, as they were shaped by the social and political climate of the time.

Bill Clinton and Tony Blair, among other political figures, are often seen as products of the 1968 era. The Long 68 seeks to explore the origins and consequences of these events, half a century after they occurred. The book takes a comprehensive approach, tracing the story from anti-war marches in the United States to revolts against Soviet oppression in eastern Europe.

What makes "The Long 68" particularly striking and original is its attempt to show how these events, which in some ways still seem so current, stemmed from histories and societies that are extraordinarily remote from our own time. The book pursues the story into the 1970s, demonstrating both the ever more violent forms of radicalization that emerged from 1968 and the brutal reactions from those in power that brought the era to an end.

Through its detailed analysis and engaging narrative, "The Long 68" offers a valuable perspective on a pivotal period in world history. It sheds light on the enduring legacies of 1968, reminding us of the importance of addressing the unfinished business of social and political change. The book serves as a reminder that history has the power to shape our present and future, and that we must continue to engage with the past to build a more inclusive and equitable world.

In conclusion, "The Long 68: An Unfinished Revolution" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, and social movements. It provides a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of a moment in history that continues to shape our world today. By delving into the origins and consequences of 1968, the book offers valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for social and political change and encourages us to continue working towards a more just and equitable future.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 131 x 198 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141982526