Book description
Revolution is in the air. Throughout the Middle East, across
Europe, America and beyond, 2011 wasa year of mass uprising Â- of
communal protest, sometimes violent suppression and above all a
burning desire for change. Yet these events are not without precedent.
History is rich with stories of people power in action, some
immortalised in national myths, others long forgotten or victims of
repressive censors. From Spartacus' famous uprising against the Romans
in 73BC to the Arab Spring of 2011, 'Viva la Revolution!' spans
centuries and continents to examine 30 revolutions that have forged
global superpowers, shaken empires, brought a halt to oppression,
upended social divisions, established the first independent black
nation and given birth to cultures, ideologies and idols. Alongside
era-defining events such as the French and American revolutions, Derry
Nairn brings to light hidden protests and assesses the continued
importance of revolutions Â- such as the Irish uprising of 1798 Â-
that ultimately failed, but which nevertheless help us understand our
modern world in revolt.
Derry Nairn is a historian and freelance writer. A graduate of
City University London and Waseda University in Tokyo, he is former
staff member and regular contributor to the UK's leading history
magazine, History Today. He lives in Ireland, and can be found online
at
www. derrynairn. com
