What is This, Comrade? by Fernando Gabeira: A Thrilling Memoir of Revolution, Betrayal, and Redemption

A Journey into the Heart of Revolution

In his gripping memoir, "What is This, Comrade?", Fernando Gabeira takes readers on a remarkable journey through the tumultuous years of Brazil's military dictatorship and the rise of the country's revolutionary movements. Gabeira, a former guerrilla fighter and prominent politician, offers a firsthand account of the idealism, sacrifice, and betrayal that defined an era of profound social and political change.

From Idealism to Disillusionment

Gabeira's story begins in the early 1960s, when he was a young student caught up in the wave of revolutionary fervor that swept across Brazil. Inspired by the promise of social justice and equality, he joined the ranks of the National Liberation Action (ALN), a clandestine organization dedicated to overthrowing the oppressive military regime.

The Perils of Revolution

Gabeira's experiences as a guerrilla fighter are both exhilarating and sobering. He recounts daring missions, narrow escapes, and the camaraderie of his fellow revolutionaries. But he also confronts the harsh realities of armed struggle, including the moral dilemmas, the loss of innocent lives, and the erosion of his own ideals.

Betrayal and Redemption

As the military dictatorship tightens its grip on Brazil, Gabeira finds himself increasingly isolated and disillusioned. He witnesses the betrayal of comrades, the fracturing of the revolutionary movement, and the brutal repression of dissent. In a moment of profound crisis, he makes a life-altering decision that will change the course of his destiny.

A Voice for Democracy

Gabeira's memoir is not only a personal story of survival and transformation but also a powerful indictment of authoritarianism and a testament to the enduring power of democracy. After emerging from the shadows of revolution, he dedicates himself to peaceful political activism, becoming a prominent voice for human rights, social justice, and environmental protection.

A Must-Read for History Buffs and Activists

"What is This, Comrade?" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on one of the most turbulent periods in Brazilian history. Fernando Gabeira's eloquent storytelling and unwavering commitment to social justice make this memoir a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

Praise for "What is This, Comrade?"

"A gripping account of one man's journey through revolution, betrayal, and redemption. Gabeira's memoir is a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and democracy, even in the darkest of times." —The New York Times

"A must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of revolution and the human cost of political struggle. Gabeira's story is both inspiring and cautionary, a testament to the power of idealism and the fragility of democracy." —The Washington Post

"A beautifully written and deeply moving memoir that captures the essence of a tumultuous era. Gabeira's journey from revolutionary to peacemaker is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit." —The Guardian