Books matching: military coup

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  1. #1

    The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born by Ayi Kwei Armah
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    'The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born' by Ayi Kwei Armah is a masterpiece that delves into the corruption and decay of post-colonial African societies, particularly focusing on Ghana. The plot follows an unnamed man who refuses to accept a bribe at work, showcasing the pervasiveness of bribery in society and the moral struggle faced by individuals. The narrative is rich in detail, providing insights into the challenges of upholding honor and integrity in a corrupt system, all set against the backdrop of a country transitioning from strife and hope to inhuman hardship.

    Ayi Kwei Armah's writing style in this book is described as eloquent, descriptive, and brilliantly human, with Africa vividly portrayed in its pages. The author weaves together poetry, intellectual insight, and powerful imagery to create a moving masterpiece that captures the struggles and conflicts faced by individuals in a society plagued by corruption and greed. is a thoughtful meditation on the societal foundations of Ghana in the 1960s, with a slow wistfulness and short bursts of narrative interspersed with long, reflective chapters that examine the protagonist's thoughts and actions within the context of his environment.


  2. #2

    Seven Days in May by Fletcher Knebel
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    'Seven Days in May' by Fletcher Knebel revolves around a military plot to overthrow the government in the near future, set in the early 1970s. It delves into the discovery of a coup d'etat orchestrated by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, James Mattoon Scott, in response to an arms deal signed by a deeply unpopular President. The plot is described as prescient in warning against the threat of fascism and the manipulation of democracy by powerful forces within the Military Industrial Complex. The writing style is noted for its detailed exploration of a scenario where the military commanders of the United States disagree with the President's decision, leading to a tense political thriller.

    The parking lot stretched away to the north, cheerless and vacant. Its monotonous acres of concrete were unbroken except where the occasional shadow of a maple tree speared thinly across the pavement....

  3. #3

    The Jakarta Method: Washington's Anticommunist Crusade and the Mass Murder Program that Shaped Our World by Vincent Bevins
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    Vincent Bevins' book, 'The Jakarta Method', delves into the dark history of Washington's anticommunist crusade and the mass murder program that had a profound impact on the world. Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Bevins uncovers the brutal realities of imperialism, CIA interventions, and the violent suppression of socialist movements in various third world countries. The book sheds light on the ruthless tactics employed by the U.S. government to further its interests, the devastating consequences of these actions on local populations, and the lasting effects that still resonate today.

    THE UNITED STATES, A WESTERN European settler colony in North America, emerged from World War II as by far the most powerful state on Earth. This was a surprise to most Americans, and to most of the w...

  4. 'How to Lose a Country: The 7 Steps from Democracy to Dictatorship' by Ece Temelkuran is a chilling and timely exploration of the rise of populism and authoritarianism in today's world. Through the lens of her personal experiences in Turkey and observations of global political shifts, Temelkuran delves into the tactics used by populist leaders to gain support and dismantle democratic institutions. The book serves as a warning about the dangers of complacency and the erosion of democracy, drawing parallels between different countries facing similar challenges.


  5. 'Overthrow: America's Century of Regime Change from Hawaii to Iraq' by Stephen Kinzer is a detailed account of fourteen instances of U.S. intervention to promote regime change, replacing existing governments with ones preferred by the U.S. The book covers a range of interventions from Hawaii to Iraq, highlighting the rise of the CIA after WWII and its influence, especially in Latin America during the Cold War years. Kinzer delves into the history of imperialism, detailing how the U.S. government overthrew democratically elected leaders around the world for political reasons and access to resources. The narrative explores the implications of U.S. interventionism and the tragic long-term effects of these regime changes.

    Darkness had already enveloped Honolulu when a pair of well-dressed conspirators knocked on one of the most imposing doors in town. The man they came to visit held the key to their revolution. He was ...

  6. #6

    Vortex by Larry Bond
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    Larry Bond's 'Vortex' is a military thriller set in a radicalized South Africa, where a shadowy coup led by Karl Vorster results in a brutal crackdown and invasion of Namibia. As the conflict escalates, involving white supremacists, communists, and rebel factions, the United States and Great Britain become involved, facing the threat of destabilizing the global economy. The book expertly weaves together elements of politics, weaponry, strategy, and technology, portraying a complex and devastating conflict with detailed military descriptions.

    He took a careful breath and held it for a moment, willing himself to ignore the thick, rancid aroma of rotting meat. Luthuli had seen and smelled too many corpses in his twenty five years with the Af...

  7. #7

    Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
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    'Bel Canto' by Ann Patchett revolves around a group of party goers who are taken hostage by terrorists in a South American country. The story delves into the unexpected bond that forms between the captors and captives, leading to love and rediscovery of the beauty of life and music. The plot unfolds slowly, focusing on character development and human interactions amidst the hostage situation, creating a sense of intimacy and connection between the diverse group of individuals.

    Patchett's writing style in 'Bel Canto' is described as lyrical, engaging, and evocative, capturing the emotions and complexities of the characters in a mesmerizing manner. The novel explores themes of love, relationships, and the power of music to transcend language barriers, offering a unique perspective on the impact of unexpected circumstances on human behavior and connections.

    when the lights went off the accompanist kissed her. Maybe he had been turning towards her just before it was completely dark, maybe he was lifting his hands. There must have been some movement, a ges...

  8. 'The Plot to Seize the White House' by Jules Archer delves into the shocking true story of a conspiracy to overthrow FDR, led by wealthy plutocrats aiming to install a fascist government in the United States. Through a detailed examination of General Smedly Butler's heroic exploits and courageous stand against corruption and hypocrisy, the book serves as a warning against the dangers of wealth-driven corruption and criminality. Archer's narrative highlights Butler's unwavering commitment to upholding The Bill of Rights and his pivotal role in exposing the fascist plot to seize power.

    Butler's involvement in the coup, his testimony at a secret congressional committee meeting, and the subsequent investigative journalism that uncovered the truth behind the conspiracy form a riveting storyline that showcases Butler's resilience and determination to thwart the sinister plans of the plotters. Archer masterfully weaves together historical events, Butler's military career, and the clash between power-hungry elites and the principles of democracy, creating a compelling narrative that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history.

    Perspiring on the raw-wood platform in the broiling heat of a July day in Washington, Major General Smedley Darlington Butler, retired, took off his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and opened his collar....

  9. 'There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra' by Chinua Achebe delves into the history of Biafra, a state that seceded from Nigeria in 1967, leading to a devastating civil war that lasted until 1970. Achebe combines personal recollections with historical details to narrate the sequence of events from pre-independence Nigeria to the Biafran succession and the ensuing war. also features a collection of poems by the author that provide a poignant insight into the war-torn period. While some readers found the fusion of history and memoir to be somewhat disjointed, the book offers a unique perspective on this significant period in Nigeria's history.

    My father was born in the last third of the nineteenth century, an era of great cultural, economic, and religious upheaval in Igbo land. His mother had died in her second childbirth, and his father, A...

  10. #10

    In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez
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    "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel that fictionalizes the lives of the Mirabal sisters who fought against the oppressive Trujillo dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. The story follows the sisters, their bravery, sacrifices, and ultimate martyrdom, shedding light on a crucial part of the country's history. Alvarez's writing style captures the raw emotions and struggles of the characters, immersing the reader in a tale of courage and resistance against tyranny.

    In the garden, Dedé is surprised to hear the radio in the outdoor kitchen announce that it is only three o‘clock. She has been waiting expectantly since after lunch, tidying up the patch of garden thi...

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