Popular Radicalism and the Unemployed in Chicago during the Great Depression

During the Great Depression, the unemployed in Chicago fought for a new, more socialistic society through practices such as communal sharing, eviction riots, Unemployed Councils, and the Workers Unemployment Insurance Bill. Their legacy is their resilience, resourcefulness, and proof that the unemployed can organize themselves to renew the struggle for a more just world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 14 June 2022
Publisher: Anthem Press

In the face of mounting joblessness and precarious employment, it becomes crucial to revisit the experiences of the unemployed during the Great Depression. By examining the city of Chicago as a focal point, this book sheds light on the underlying political radicalism and class resistance that often go unnoticed in practices considered apolitical and un-ideological. From the emergence of communal sharing initiatives to the "eviction riots," from the formation of Unemployed Councils to the widespread support behind the Workers Unemployment Insurance Bill, millions of individuals engaged in a fierce struggle to challenge capitalist values and usher in a new, more socialistic society.

Today, their legacy endures through their resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination to renew the fight for a more just world. The experiences of the unemployed during the Great Depression serve as a powerful reminder that when faced with adversity, the unemployed can unite and organize to reclaim their dignity and advocate for a better future.

This book offers a valuable perspective on the historical roots of contemporary social movements and highlights the ongoing relevance of class struggle and political activism in shaping our world. By delving into the experiences of the unemployed during the Great Depression, we gain a deeper understanding of the power of collective action and the potential for social transformation.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839983252