Rescuing the American Flag
Press Action
Saturday, November 26, 2005
http://www.pressaction.com/news/weblog/full_article/50revolutions11262005/
Review of 50 American Revolutions You’re Not Supposed to Know: Reclaiming American Patriotism by Mickey Z. (Disinformation, 2005, 155 pages).
"I have no country to fight for; my country is the earth, and I am a citizen of the world.”
-Eugene V. Debs
Mickey Z. wants to reclaim American patriotism from the zealots who have turned it into an antihuman passion. His new book, 50 American Revolutions You’re Not Supposed to Know: Reclaiming American Patriotism, highlights people throughout US history who, through self-sacrifice and struggle, elevated the welfare of individuals and the community above the survival of the lifeless entity known as the nation-state.
The 50 “revolutions” cited in the book represent a form of patriotism based on challenging tradition and taking action. The book serves as a wonderful companion to Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States. Both serve as histories of the United States, although Zinn begins with Columbus while Mickey starts with Thomas Paine’s Common Sense (published in 1776).
In the introduction, Mickey, in fact, cites Zinn, who says: “We don’t have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in the process of change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.”
Arranged chronologically, Mickey presents snapshots of American political dissidents as well as artists and athletes whose work ran counter to the prevailing culture. From the rebellions of Daniel Shays and Nat Turner to the groundbreaking work of photographer Dorothea Lange and sports reporter Lester Rodney in the 20th century, Mickey writes an easy-to-read history.
50AR highlights the work of vegan nutritionists, disability rights activists, and autonomous groups such as Food Not Bombs who decline to operate in circles sanctioned by both governmental and nongovernmental officials.
Following in the tradition of one of Mickey’s previous books, There Is No Good War (aka Saving Private Power), 50AR highlights important parts of American history that are often overlooked in textbooks. It also serves as a reminder of the power that people still have here in the United States when they have the courage to stand up and take action.
Students, young and old, should read this book if they hope to secure a well-rounded understanding of US history. With the holiday season upon us, 50AR would make a timely gift for the many among us unfamiliar with the strong tradition of dissent in this country. And given its diminutive size and affordable price ($9.95), 50AR would certainly serve as the perfect stocking stuffer for everyone in the family.
- Review by Mark Hand
Mickey will be speaking and signing books starting at 7 pm on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the Barnes & Noble, Astor Place, 4 Astor Place, Manhattan (212-420-1322).