Radicals in America
Christopher Phelps (Department of American and Canadian Studies, University of Nottingham) will launch, and be in conversation about, his book Radicals in America, with Robin Vandome (Lecturer in American Intellectual and Cultural History, University of Nottingham)
Radicals in America is a masterful history of controversial dissenters who pursued greater equality, freedom and democracy – and transformed the nation. Written with clarity and verve, Radicals in America shows how radical leftists, while often marginal or ostracised, could assume a catalytic role as effective organizers in mass movements, fostering the imagination of alternative futures. Beginning with the Second World War, Radicals in America extends all the way down to the present, making it the first comprehensive history of radicalism to reach beyond the sixties.
From the Communist Party and the Black Panther Party for Self-Defence, its coverage extends to the Battle of Seattle and Occupy Wall Street. Each chapter begins with a particular life story, including a Harlem woman deported in the McCarthy era, a gay Japanese-American opponent of the Vietnam War, and a Native American environmentalist – vignettes that bring to life the personal within the political.
Admission for this event is free and refreshments will be available.
There will be 15% discount off any purchases made on the night.
Booking is recommended. To attend this event, please RSVP to fiveleaves.bookshopevents@gmail.com or alternatively call in to the shop.