Not Without Honor : The History of American Anticommunism

The American anticommunist movement has often been dismissed as a product of right-wing hysteria that left deep scars on society and institutions. This work repositions the struggle against communism within the broader context of American history. Richard Gid Powers illustrates that McCarthyism, red-baiting, and blacklisting were merely facets of a larger movement involving a diverse coalition of Americans—Jews, Protestants, blacks, Catholics, Socialists, union leaders, businessmen, and conservatives. Their motivations stemmed from informed knowledge and direct experiences with the Communist system, rather than ignorance or fear. Critics have praised the book for its superb writing and rich detail, noting its perceptive and thoughtful analysis. David J. Garrow highlights its thoroughness, while Sean Wilentz commends the revival of forgotten segments of anti-Communist opinion. Powers extensively utilizes primary sources, revealing new insights and vividly depicting the intricate relationships among various ethnic and radical communities in the U.S., shaped by their firsthand encounters with communism. The depth and breadth of his research significantly enhance our understanding of this complex topic, making it a valuable contribution to the field. Richard M. Fried describes it as a well-executed study that weaves together the many threads of a vast subject into a rich tapestry.