Opening the Gates: The Lip Affair, 1968-1981

In the Summer of 1973, workers occupied the Lip watch and clock factory, sparking a national cause and controversy. Donald Reid's book "Opening the Gates" chronicles the history of this struggle, detailing the conflict of 1973, the second bankruptcy, and the conversion of Lip into a group of cooperatives.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 512 pages
\n Publication date: 12 June 2018
\n Publisher: Verso Books
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In the summer of 1973, a significant event unfolded when workers at the Lip watch and clock factory took matters into their own hands, initiating a national cause and sparking controversy. The Lip occupation and self-management experience captivated the imagination of the Left in France and internationally, serving as a living testament to the spirit of May 68. In his book, Opening the Gates, Donald Reid delves into the rich history of this struggle. Reid's meticulously researched narrative traces the early stirrings of worker radicalism in 1968, leading up to the nationally publicized conflict of 1973, the second bankruptcy, and occupation of 1976, and the subsequent transformation of Lip into a group of cooperatives that operated until the 1980s.

The Lip occupation showcased the determination and resilience of workers who sought to reclaim control over their workplaces and challenge the prevailing economic and social norms. It was a symbol of the power of collective action and the potential for workers to shape their destinies. The self-management approach adopted by the Lip workers was innovative and inspired many others, demonstrating that alternative modes of production could be successful and sustainable.

The Lip occupation and self-management experience also had broader political implications. It served as a reminder of the ongoing struggles of workers and the importance of labor movements in shaping society. It also highlighted the potential for social change and the importance of challenging dominant power structures.

Overall, Opening the Gates provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the Lip occupation and self-management experience. It sheds light on the struggles of workers, the power of collective action, and the potential for social change. It is a valuable contribution to the understanding of labor history and the ongoing challenges faced by workers around the world.

\n Weight: 914g\n
Dimension: 240 x 158 x 45 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786635402\n \n