Anarchist Quotes
Anarchist Quotes

Authors List
Authors List


Alexander Berkman

Alexander Berkman: Influence on Anarchism

Alexander Berkman was born on November 21, 1870, in the Russian Empire and died on June 28, 1936. As an influential writer, he produced significant anarchist works, including 'Prison Memoirs of an Anarchist' and 'The ABC of Anarchism'. His philosophy was heavily centered on anarcho-communism and he was a fervent advocate of direct action.

Berkman's contributions to the anarchist movement have left a long-lasting impact. His activities kicked off with his attempted assassination of Henry Clay Frick during the Homestead strike. Though the attempt was unsuccessful, it highlighted Berkman's commitment to his political beliefs and his willingness to take drastic actions for the sake of his cause. His writings continue to be highly regarded within anarchist circles and have heavily influenced the movement.


Date of Birth: November 21, 1870

Date of Death: June 28, 1936

Country of Birth: Russian Empire

Political Ideas: Anarcho-communism, Direct Action

Quotes Available: 7



Quotes by Alexander Berkman

It is capitalism and government which stand for disorder and violence. Anarchism is the very reverse of it; it means order without government and peace without violence.
It is the system, rather than individuals, that is the source of pollution and degradation.
Terrorism is tempting with its tremendous possibilities. It offers a mechanical solution, as it were, in hopeless situations.
And as you are invaded and violated, so you subconsciously revenge yourself by invading and violating others over whom you have authority or can exercise compulsion. physical or moral. In this way all life has become a crazy quilt of authority, of domination and submission, of command and obedience, of coercion and subjection, of rulers and ruled, of violence and force in a thousand and one forms.
If your object is to secure liberty, you must learn to do without authority and compulsion.
May the enemies of the people be terrified at the unexpected awakening.
It is economic slavery, the savage struggle for a crumb, that has converted mankind into wolves and sheep.


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