May '68 and Its Aftershocks: The Remaking of the Global Order

Introduction

In May 1968, a wave of student protests and strikes swept across France, quickly spreading to other countries around the world. This period of unrest, known as May '68, is often seen as a watershed moment in modern history, marking the end of the post-war consensus and the beginning of a new era of social and political change.

In her book, Kristin Ross provides a comprehensive and insightful account of May '68 and its aftermath. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including interviews with participants, archival research, and contemporary media accounts, Ross offers a nuanced and multi-faceted analysis of this transformative period.

The Roots of May '68

Ross begins by exploring the long-term factors that led to the explosion of protest in May '68. She argues that the roots of the movement can be traced back to the post-war economic boom, which created a new sense of affluence and opportunity for many people, but also led to increased social inequality and a growing sense of alienation.

In addition, Ross highlights the importance of the student movement in the lead-up to May '68. She argues that the student movement was not simply a reaction to specific grievances, but rather a broader expression of a desire for social and political change.

The Events of May '68

Ross provides a detailed account of the events of May '68, from the initial student protests in Paris to the general strike that brought the country to a standstill. She vividly recreates the atmosphere of the time, capturing the sense of excitement, fear, and uncertainty that gripped France during this period.

Ross also explores the role of the media in shaping the events of May '68. She argues that the media played a crucial role in both amplifying the protests and delegitimizing them.

The Aftermath of May '68

The final section of the book examines the aftermath of May '68. Ross argues that May '68 had a profound impact on French society and politics, leading to a number of significant changes. These changes included the rise of the New Left, the decline of the traditional working-class movement, and the emergence of new social movements focused on issues such as women's rights, gay rights, and environmental protection.

Ross also explores the global impact of May '68, arguing that it inspired similar movements in other countries around the world. She concludes by reflecting on the legacy of May '68 and its continuing relevance in the present day.

Conclusion

May '68 and Its Aftershocks is a magisterial work of history that provides a comprehensive and insightful account of this transformative period. Ross's book is essential reading for anyone interested in modern history, social movements, and the ongoing struggle for social and political change.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in any of the following topics, then you should read May '68 and Its Aftershocks:

• Modern history
• Social movements
• Political change
• The student movement
• The New Left
• Women's rights
• Gay rights
• Environmental protection
• The global impact of May '68

This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the world we live in today. It is a powerful reminder of the power of social movements to change the world.