Only a Beginning (An Anarchist Anthology)

Drawing on a wide range of anarchist publications, Only a Beginning is the first comprehensive overview of anarchist theory and practice in North America from 1976 to the present. Compiled and edited by Allan Antliff, it documents over a quarter-century of grassroots activism, including protests and gatherings, art exhibitions, street theatre, Internet sites and squats, as well as specific movements such as environmentalism, anti--globalization, feminism, queer rights, indigenous struggles, prisoners’ rights and terrorism.

In today’s post-9/11 climate, major demonstrations that resist globalization, war-mongering and anti--environmental policies, among others, are becoming more organized and high-profile, while at the same time are subject to increasing resistance and suspicion by politicians and police. But in the muddle of today’s political centrism, it seems at times that anarchism is the only real voice passionately speaking out against the ruling class.

Only a Beginning casts light on the rich, diverse and progressive history of these movements, placing them in the context of the era in which they appeared and demonstrating their relevance to modern-day action. Included are the histories of major anarchist journals, as well as essays on specific anarchist practice relevant to activist movements across North America.

Lavishly illustrated with original artwork and photographs, Only a Beginning is one of the most comprehensive collection of writings by anarchists ever assembled.

Allan Antliff is the the author of Anarchist Modernism: Art, Politics and the First American Avant-Garde, has written extensively for the anarchist press, and is currently contributing editor to the Alternative Press Review and art editor of Anarchist Studies.