John Newsinger is a British Marxist professor of History whose work delves into the analysis of social and political themes through historical events. His critical essays and studies, published in leading academic journals, often explore the relationship between power, ideology, and cultural production. As a literary critic, he also examines genres such as science fiction and cinema, seeking reflections of contemporary societal trends. His approach is characterized by deep historical insight and Marxist interpretation.
George Orwell is perhaps best known for his two anti-Stalinist novels, Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty Four, both of which are often misused as a warning against socialism of any kind. But this obscures Orwell's own radical socialist politics. This short introduction to Orwell's life and his writings argues that he remained committed to international socialism and the need for revolutionary change until the end of his life.
One of the most obscene spectacles of the Trump presidency has been that of evangelical pastors crowding round him to give him their blessing. But this is only a very public acknowledgement that he is very much their man. The 81 percent of white evangelical Christians, who made up a third of those voting for him, effectively put him in the White House. Not only did a large majority of evangelical Christians vote for him, but tens of thousands of them actively campaigned for him. How did they come to support an individual as saturated in sin as Trump?
A critical account of George Orwell's politics, exploring his anti-fascism, criticism of the USSR and enduring commitment to socialism
"For over a decade from their foundation in 1905 in the USA, the Industrial Workers of the World (the IWW or Wobblies) fought tirelessly for socialist revolution. They forged a union movement that took up the struggle for the rights of women, immigrant and black workers at a time when other trade unions were busy dividing workers and colluding with employers. The Wobblies' courage and ingenuity continue to inspire new generations of socialists and trade unionists. This book looks at some of the most important IWW battles and the lessons we can draw from them today." John Newsinger. Bookmarks, 2017.
This graphic novel follows the lives of Natalia and Peter, two youths at the centre of a revolutionary storm. In 1917, Russian workers poured out of their factories and sparked revolution. Defying Cossacks, they took control of the streets, calling on other workers. Troops were brought in to restore order. But soldiers' anger at war, food shortages and injustice led them to mutiny. In weeks the Tsar was gone, followed by the government that replaced him. By October, workers had taken control. But what happened in that momentous year changed those who lived it.
British Counterinsurgency challenges the British Army's claim to counterinsurgency expertise. It provides well-written, accessible and up-to-date accounts of the post-1945 campaigns in Palestine, Malaya, Kenya, Cyprus, South Yemen, Dhofar, Northern Ireland and more recently in Iraq and Afghanistan.
'The Blood Never Dried' challenges the rising chorus of claims that the British Empire was a kinder, gentler force in the world of imperialism. John Newsinger sets out to uncover this neglected history of repression and resistance. To the boast that 'the sun never set on the British Empire' the Chartist Ernest Jones replied 'and the blood never dried.' This updated edition brings the story up to the Obama administration and Britain's changing relationship with the US, as well as taking into account the Arab Spring and its implications.