Decolonization - Unsung Heroes of the Resistance

Translated from French, "Decolonization: Unsung Heroes of the Resistance" focuses on the personalities that shaped post-colonial revolutions across the world. Authors share stories about the struggles against invasion, anchoring historical and cultural resistance from the point of view of people whose freedoms were curtailed as their lands and resources were forcibly taken. The book highlights stories of revolutionaries who asserted their freedoms against the British and French colonial projects in Algeria, India, Vietnam, Senegal, and others. The history of religious and ethnic oppression is also merged with an enlightened view of economic subjugation.

Pictured above is editor Pierre Singaravélou

Each story reflects the rebellious tone of revolt, insurrection, and insubordination. We learn that violence was often necessary to drive out European domination and reclaim social and economic power. The authors take great care to highlight women revolutionaries such as Kenya’s Mary Muthoni Nyanjiru and India’s Sarojini Naidu, shattering gender stereotypes that persist to this day.

This illustrated volume includes photos of different aspects of the struggle, from Kikuyu women forced to work on British plantations to refugees fleeing East Punjab after the partition of India and Pakistan. This is an important volume for anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge about the lasting legacy of colonization. Through this book, American students of social movements will learn about the different strategies used by freedom-seekers and truth-tellers in demolishing colonial power structures.

Editor's Note This review was originally published in Manhattan Book Review.

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