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James Guillaume, Pioneer of Anarchism

James Guillaume, born in London on February 16, 1844, was a Swiss anarcho-communist and historian. Guillaume's interest in anarchism and the labor movement began during his schooling in Switzerland, where he was influenced by the events of the Paris Commune. He was a prominent member of the Jura Federation and played a key role in its establishment in 1871. The Jura Federation, a section of the International Workingmen's Association, was one of the first organizations to advocate for anarcho-communist principles.

Throughout his life, Guillaume made significant contributions to the anarchist movement. His writings were central to the promotion of anarcho-communism and his works - including l'Internationale: Documents et Souvenirs and Ideals and Realities in Russian Literature - helped shape the movement's intellectual thought. He also played an instrumental role in theorizing the structure of an anarcho-communist society. He emphasized the importance of free association and mutual aid, arguing that the downfall of capitalism would result from the establishment of a cooperative society based on these principles. Guillaume passed away on November 20, 1916.

Date of Birth: 1844-02-16

Date of Death: 1916-11-20

Country of Birth: Switzerland

Political Ideas: Anarcho-communism

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