“Beating the Fascists” is a gripping account of how Anti-Fascist Action (AFA) fought back against the rising tide of fascism in the UK during the 1980s and 1990s. The book, written by those who were on the frontlines, provides an inside look at the brutal confrontations between AFA and far-right groups like the British National Party (BNP) and National Front (NF). It does not shy away from the violence and tough decisions that anti-fascists had to make to protect their communities. In this review, we will break down what makes this book so important and relevant today.
Overview of “Beating the Fascists”
“Beating the Fascists” is more than just a history book. It is a collection of personal stories, historical details, and reflections on what it means to stand up against hate. The book is written by members of AFA, giving readers a direct line to the voices of people who were involved in the thick of the action. It takes us through the formation of AFA in 1985, their strategies, and the intense street battles they fought against the far-right.
The structure of the book is straightforward. It starts by explaining why AFA was formed, then dives into the most significant clashes between anti-fascists and fascists. The narrative is fast-paced, filled with vivid descriptions of violent encounters, as well as the organizing work that went into making these actions happen. It also offers a look at the personal sacrifices made by those involved, giving readers a sense of the emotional toll of this kind of activism.
The historical context of the book
To understand the impact of “Beating the Fascists”, we need to look at the political climate in the UK at the time. The late 1970s and 1980s were marked by economic struggles, racial tensions, and a growing far-right movement. Groups like the National Front (NF) and later the British National Party (BNP) were gaining ground, not just in elections, but also through street-level violence. Immigrant communities, particularly South Asians and Black Britons, were frequent targets of racial attacks.
AFA was born out of frustration with the existing anti-fascist groups, who many believed were not doing enough to stop the far-right. AFA took a more aggressive stance, believing that the only way to stop fascism was through direct action, which sometimes involved physical confrontation. This book is set against this backdrop of rising fascism and the urgent need to defend vulnerable communities from attacks.
Central themes and core messages presented in the book
One of the central themes of “Beating the Fascists” is the idea that sometimes, words are not enough. The members of AFA believed that the far-right would not be defeated by debates or protests alone; they had to be confronted, physically if necessary. This raises an important question: Is violence ever justified in the fight against fascism?
The book does not provide easy answers, but it clearly shows the reasoning behind AFA’s tactics. In their view, fascists were trying to violently oppress minority communities, and direct action was the only way to stop them.
Another key theme is solidarity. AFA was not just a group of left-wing activists. It was a coalition that included working-class people, immigrants, and others who believed in standing up to oppression. The book emphasizes the power of collective action and how important it is for communities to come together in the face of fascism.
Finally, the book highlights the importance of grassroots organizing. AFA was not funded by big organizations or political parties. It was a bottom-up movement that relied on the dedication of ordinary people. The book shows how effective grassroots activism can be, especially when it is driven by a clear sense of purpose and urgency.
The influence of Beating the Fascists on contemporary anti-fascist movements
“Beating the Fascists” is not just a history book. It is also a guide for modern anti-fascists. Many of the tactics used by Anti-Fascist Action (AFA) have been adopted by contemporary groups like Antifa. The book shows that direct action, while controversial, can be an effective way to disrupt far-right groups and prevent them from organizing.
In addition, AFA’s focus on solidarity and community defense continues to inspire anti-fascist movements around the world. Groups today still emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable communities from racist and fascist violence, just as AFA did in the 1980s and 1990s. The book’s message is clear: fascism is still a threat, and it takes a collective effort to push it back.
In today’s political climate, where far-right populism and nationalism are on the rise, the lessons from “Beating the Fascists” feel more relevant than ever.
Strengths of the book
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its authenticity. Because it is written by people who were directly involved in the fight against fascism, it feels raw and real. The firsthand accounts of street battles, the fear, the anger, it is all there, and it pulls you into the story. You feel like you are right there with the AFA members, standing on the frontlines.
Another strength is the book’s detailed research. It is not just a collection of personal stories; it is also a well-documented history of the rise of far-right groups in the UK. The authors do a great job of placing AFA’s actions within the broader context of UK politics, making it clear why these confrontations were so important.
Finally, the book is engaging. Even if you are not familiar with the history of AFA or the far-right in the UK, the book is written in a way that draws you in. The pacing is fast, and the storytelling is vivid, making it easy to follow along.
Weaknesses of the book
While “Beating the Fascists” is a powerful and important book, it is not without its flaws. One of the main criticisms is that it offers a one-sided perspective. The book is written entirely from the viewpoint of AFA members, so you do not get much insight into other anti-fascist strategies or perspectives. For example, it does not delve deeply into non-violent methods of resistance, which were also being used at the time.
Another potential weakness is the book’s focus on violence. While the authors clearly believe that physical confrontation was necessary, not all readers will agree. The book does not spend much time exploring the ethical questions around using violence to fight fascism, which might leave some readers wanting a more balanced discussion.
Conclusion
“Beating the Fascists” is a vital read for anyone interested in anti-fascism, activism, or political history. It offers a gripping, firsthand look at how Anti-Fascist Action fought back against the far-right in the UK, providing valuable lessons for today’s activists. While it may not be for everyone, especially those who are uncomfortable with its focus on physical confrontation, it is a powerful reminder that the fight against fascism is ongoing. The book’s emphasis on solidarity, grassroots organizing, and community defense makes it a timeless piece of anti-fascist literature.