speeches

Speeches against conscription - Emma Goldman

The transcripts of four speeches made by Emma Goldman against conscription across the US in 1917.

2nd world congress of the Comintern: Syndicalism and the party debate

A debate at the 2nd World Congress of the Comintern from July 19 to August 7, 1920 between Jack Tanner, Lenin and Trotsky over the specific position and point of the party and the role of the revolutionary minority. Raising left-wing objections to parties, and the problems it causes, especially in relation to ideological unity and leadership. Including a discussion of syndicalism and trade union relations with politics.

The secret wars of the CIA - John Stockwell

A lecture by John Stockwell given in October, 1987 on the inner workings of the national security council and the CIA's convert actions in Angola, Central America and Vietnam.

‘What is the alternative?’ - Werner Bonefeld

Werner Bonefeld discusses the crisis and the politics of work. This is a transcript of a talk to the anarchist bookfair, London, October 2010, published in issue 11 of Shift magazine. Originally published in January 2011.

Court Speech by Louis Lingg, one of the Haymarket martyrs

Louis Lingg's speech to the court which sentenced him to death.

The 1934 Toledo Auto Lite strike - Ted Selander

National Guardsmen charge the picket line

A speech given by participant Ted Selander on June 3, 1984 at an anniversary celebration of the 1934 Toledo Auto-Lite strike.

May Day and the Fight Back We Need

Occupy Iowa City held a rally and march as part of Occupy May 1st and the national Day of Action / General Strike. This was given as a speech there by Wild Rose Collective member R. Spourgìtis.

Ravachol’s forbidden defence speech

On trial for murder after a series of bombings, the revolutionary terrorist Ravachol attempted to give the following speech, not to deny his guilt, but to accept and explain it. According to contemporary accounts, he was cut off after a few words, and the speech was never delivered. He was guillotined shortly afterwards.

A Wobbly speech from Occupy Portland

A member of the Portland IWW gives a speech at Occupy Portland.

The General Strike - Bill Haywood

Summary of a speech made in New York City on March 16, 1911 by IWW organizer 'Big' Bill Haywood.