56 pages • 1 hour read
On Revolution
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Book Brief
336
Book • Nonfiction
1963
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In On Revolution, Hannah Arendt presents a comparative analysis of the American and French Revolutions, arguing that the American Revolution was successful because it established a durable constitutional republic, whereas the French Revolution failed as it disintegrated into state terror due to prioritizing the social goal of eliminating mass poverty over establishing political freedom.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
2,987 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
On Revolution by Hannah Arendt offers a profound analysis of the nature and trajectory of political revolutions, receiving praise for its depth and originality. Critics commend Arendt's nuanced comparison of the American and French revolutions, but some find her conclusions controversial and her prose dense. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read for those interested in political theory.
Who Should Read On Revolution?
A reader who appreciates On Revolution by Hannah Arendt is likely interested in political theory, history, and philosophy. They would enjoy deep analyses of democratic principles and revolutionary movements, similar to those in Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America or John Locke's Two Treatises of Government.
2,987 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
An American Founding Father, known for writing the Declaration of Independence, serving as the third President, and founding the University of Virginia.
John Adams
John Adams
An American Founding Father, diplomat, and the first Vice President of the United States, who played a significant role in the American Revolution and maintained a long correspondence with Thomas Jefferson.
Maximilien Robespierre
Maximilien Robespierre
A French revolutionary leader who became prominent in the Jacobin Club, known for his advocacy of universal suffrage and association with the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution.
336
Book • Nonfiction
1963
Adult
18+ years
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