Frantz Fanon (1925–1961)

This book by Frantz Fanon is relevant today. The context of the book is Algeria and French colonialism, so it is interesting for anyone studying French colonialism in Algeria. However, the lessons are timeless.
Many countries suffered from colonialism and continue to struggle to find their national character in the post-colonial world.
Franz Fanton's writing, while balanced, conceals deep anger. There is anger he directs at the colonialists and towards native people who copy the colonialists and exploit their fellow citizens.
The last chapter, in which he talks about some of the mental problems arising from colonialism, is powerful.
The conclusion calls for his citizens to find themselves and not copy their old masters.
This book is brilliant and relevant today.… (lisätietoja)

Pretty amazing. The final chapter, talking about his experience dealing with those traumatised in various ways by colonialism and the war as well as the bullshit given as explanations of Algerian behaviour by French psychiatrists, is horrifying and incredible. He has a great writing style which is clear and gets you caught up in his ideas of liberation - although I sometimes wish he said more on certain issues or whatever, you get a very clear picture of what he thinks. His descriptions of the problems of decolonisation ring true today. Important stuff if you're at all interested in the topic.… (lisätietoja)