Anarcho-gusanos?

A review of Sam Dolgoff´s "The Cuban Revolution: A Critical Perspective". The Swedish translation created some stir in local leftist circles at the time of its publication.

I've read Sam Dolgoff's book in a Swedish translation. It's a badly edited collection of critical documents and comments concerning the Cuban revolution. The perspective is somewhat unusual. Dolgoff was the grand old man of U.S. anarcho-syndicalism, and his book is therefore about anarchist opposition to Fidel Castro's regime. Apparently, a part of the early labour movement on Cuba was anarcho-syndicalist. Also, the Spanish CNT had a presence on the island in the form of exiles. These groups opposed Batista already during his "democratic" period, continued to oppose him as dictator, and later turned against Castro, as well.

Dolgoff's book deserves an OK rating since it deals with an obscure subject matter. I don't think material on Cuban anarchism is readily available elsewhere. As already mentioned, however, "The Cuban Revolution: A Critical Perspective" is badly edited and lacks proper context. It looks almost self-published.

I was also struck by the political naivety and hypocrisy. The anarchist program, if taken seriously, is completely utopian. But, of course, the glorious CNT and FAI in Spain didn't take it all that seriously - they joined the People's Front government of the Spanish Republic! Yet, Dolgoff constantly attacks the Cuban Communists for "supporting Batista", since they had formed a popular front with him during his democratic period (which Dolgoff conflates with the later, dictatorial period of Batista's colourful career).

So presumably popular fronts are alright when formed by anarcho-syndicalists, but a no-no if indulged in by the reds? However, in the blinkered fashion typical of these people, Dolgoff doesn't even *mention* the CNT-FAI's participation in the Spanish popular front! At one point, Dolgoff mockingly comments a pro-Castro writer with the words: "Wanted: A libertarian caudillo".

Somebody like general Miaja, perhaps?

LOL!

I'm sorry, but I just couldn't help pointing that out...

"The Cuban Revolution: A Critical Perspective" might perhaps be a good addition to the voluminous archives of some Cuban research institution, but the hapless character of these anarcho-gusanos really does make you laugh...