As we near the end of 2008, it is worth remembering an anniversary that fell this year. September 21 marked the 70th anniversary of the disbanding of the international brigades, formed of volunteers across the world to fight the rise of fascism under Franco in Spain.
As much a tribute to the legacy and bravery of men and women worldwide in taking up arms to fight the fascist monster, and to dare to dream that a new world was possible, the memory of those who fought, and those who fell, stands as a stark reminder and warning of the deadly betrayals of Stalinism.
As we enter uncertain economic and political times, where the failure of neoliberal capitalism is only matched by the failure of the left to put forward a robust alternative, we would do well to remember the sacrifices made by past generations in the struggle for a better world, and to renew the strength in our hearts and imbs for the struggle ahead.
The links below are to the Youtube version of Ken Loach's acclaimed 1995 movie "Land and Freedom", on of the most moving antiwar films ever made, and an open window on the reality of the Spanish Civil War.
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Part 10
Part 11
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