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The Politics of Che Guevara: Theory and Practice

Ronald Simmons

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Che Guevara was a Marxist revolutionary and guerrilla leader who played a key role in the Cuban Revolution. His writings and speeches have had a profound impact on left-wing movements around the world. This article explores the key elements of Guevara's political thought and practice, including his views on class struggle, imperialism, and the role of violence in revolution.

The Politics of Che Guevara: Theory and Practice

by Samuel Farber

4.4 out of 5

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Class Struggle

Guevara believed that the root of all oppression and exploitation in the world was class struggle. He argued that the working class was the most oppressed class in society, and that it was the only class that could bring about a truly just and equitable world. Guevara's commitment to class struggle was evident in all of his political work, from his writings to his speeches to his military campaigns.

In his famous essay "Guerrilla Warfare," Guevara argued that the working class could only achieve liberation through armed struggle. He believed that the ruling class would never willingly give up its power, and that violence was therefore necessary to overthrow the existing order. Guevara's writings on guerrilla warfare have been used by revolutionary movements around the world, and they continue to inspire activists and revolutionaries today.

Imperialism

Guevara was also a staunch opponent of imperialism. He believed that imperialism was a system of exploitation and oppression that allowed the rich countries of the world to dominate the poor countries. Guevara argued that imperialism was at the root of many of the world's problems, including poverty, hunger, and war. He called for a united front of all oppressed peoples to fight against imperialism and create a more just and equitable world.

Guevara's opposition to imperialism was evident in his support for revolutionary movements around the world. He traveled to Congo and Bolivia to help train and organize guerrilla fighters. He also worked to build international solidarity among revolutionary movements. Guevara believed that the struggle against imperialism was a global struggle, and that all oppressed peoples had a common cause.

The Role of Violence in Revolution

Guevara was a controversial figure, and his views on the role of violence in revolution have been the subject of much debate. Guevara believed that violence was sometimes necessary to overthrow oppressive regimes. He argued that the working class had the right to use violence to defend itself and to fight for its liberation. However, Guevara also believed that violence should only be used as a last resort, and that it should never be used for its own sake.

Guevara's writings on the role of violence in revolution have been used to justify both acts of terrorism and acts of self-defense. However, it is important to remember that Guevara was a complex and nuanced thinker, and that his views on violence cannot be reduced to a simple formula. Guevara believed that violence was sometimes necessary, but he also believed that it should only be used as a last resort.

Che Guevara was a complex and controversial figure, but there is no doubt that he was one of the most influential revolutionaries of the 20th century. His writings and speeches continue to inspire activists and revolutionaries around the world, and his legacy will continue to be debated for generations to come. Guevara's political thought and practice is a powerful reminder that the struggle for a more just and equitable world is an ongoing struggle, and that violence is sometimes necessary to achieve liberation.

The Politics of Che Guevara: Theory and Practice

by Samuel Farber

4.4 out of 5