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100 reviews
July 14,2025
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I read this book at the beginning of the Arab spring when the events in Libya and Syria were calling for such thinking.... It is a very good and practically useful book because it is a practical application of what Che Guevara did in Cuba and many revolutionaries and liberation movements have benefited from this book.... I only read the part related to Che Guevara where there is a version dedicated to him only.... As for this version, I know nothing about it....


This book seems to have had a significant impact during a time of turmoil and change in the Arab world. The reference to the events in Libya and Syria suggests that the ideas presented in the book were relevant and perhaps even inspiring to those involved in the revolutionary movements. The practical application of Che Guevara's methods in Cuba is also emphasized, indicating that the book offers valuable insights and strategies for achieving social and political change. However, the author's admission that they only read the part related to Che Guevara and know nothing about the rest of the book leaves some questions unanswered. It would be interesting to know more about the other aspects of the book and whether they are equally relevant and useful. Overall, this book appears to be a thought-provoking and potentially influential work that could have important implications for understanding and promoting social and political change.
July 14,2025
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The book is definitely dated. This is because some of the tactics and strategies that are discussed within it would not be applicable or efficient in modern times. In today's world, most terrorist groups and guerrilla teams make use of social media and other forms of digital technology to further their organizations. However, I still believe that it is a good book and is worth reading. This is because it helps one to understand how the subject in question operated during his time. It provides valuable insights into the methods and mindsets that were prevalent in that era. By reading this book, we can gain a better understanding of the historical context and the evolution of such activities. Even though the tactics may have changed, the underlying principles and motives may still hold some relevance. Therefore, despite its age, this book can still offer a great deal of value to the reader.

July 14,2025
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An honest to god manual exists, which details everything down to how many pairs of underwear a guerilla fighter should have with them.

Obviously, this manual is dated due to the significant technological and military advancements that have occurred since its creation.

However, despite the passage of time and the changes in the military landscape, the core values and tactics presented in the manual would still be the same.

These include important aspects such as morals, which are essential for guiding the actions and decisions of guerilla fighters.

The importance of propaganda cannot be underestimated either, as it can be used to sway public opinion and gain support for the guerilla cause.

Finally, the division of tasks is crucial for the efficient operation of a guerilla force, ensuring that each member knows their role and responsibilities.

Overall, while the manual may be outdated in some respects, its core teachings still hold value and can provide valuable insights into the world of guerilla warfare.

July 14,2025
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Guerrilla Warfare is crafted as a concise guide, focusing on the crucial aspects to contemplate when initiating a Guerrilla war. It presents practical considerations that potential freedom fighters might overlook. For instance, the significance of good shoes cannot be emphasized enough as the fighters will be constantly on their feet, marching for long distances. Additionally, the importance of conserving ammunition, which has to be obtained from the enemy, is also highlighted.

The book concludes with valuable lessons drawn from the Cuban revolution, specifically regarding what to think about once the goal is achieved and one becomes the government.

Ernesto Che Guevara boasted a remarkable writing style, making this book extremely accessible. With a mere 133 pages, it can be easily finished during a single train journey, like the one from London to Plymouth. The subjects covered sometimes came as a surprise, such as the emphasis on having good footwear. It also showcases Guevara's determination to ensure that the local 'peasants' were treated fairly, by compensating them for food and imposing severe punishments on fighters who mistreated them.

First published in 1961, this book is somewhat outdated. Even though Che intended to update it before his untimely death at the hands of US FBI assassins in 1967, the military landscape has changed drastically since the Cuban revolution. The advent of advanced military equipment like drones with heat sensors, not to mention the proliferation of mobile phones, means that many of his techniques would leave the fighters vulnerable to attack. In fact, I suspect that a guerrilla war launched in recent years would have been doomed to failure. Moving large numbers of rebel fighters, even under the cover of darkness, would have been suicidal.

Nevertheless, it remains an interesting read that offers valuable insights into the mind of one of history's most iconic revolutionary figures.
July 14,2025
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He is ready to give his life, but the positive quality of this guerrilla warfare is precisely that each one of the guerrilla fighters is ready to die, not to defend an ideal, but rather to convert it to reality.


Guerrilla Warfare by Che Guevara is the book of standards and tactics for guerrilla warfare for the 1960s. Guevara, a well-known figure, is either loved or hated with very few people not taking sides. Although dated in terms of weapons and the lay of the land after fifty years, the book still holds value. Technology has indeed changed. The Chiapas rebels made history by using the internet to promote their cause. Live Twitter feeds now give worldwide coverage to rebellions and protests. Much has changed since Guevara's days of messengers and carrier pigeons.


What makes this book interesting is what makes the guerrilla. When I joined the Marines in the early 1980s, I remember reading through the pre-boot camp material while on the delayed entry program. It explained what it is to be a Marine. How I would be trained to be a cut above the military servicemen around the world. We trained and acted on a higher standard. There was a build up to being a Marine. The idea was to psych you up for the challenge.


Guevara seems to follow the same path. Guerrilla fighters were morally superior to the oppressors. They were to treat the local population with respect and prove to the population that they were the good guys. When engaging the enemy, prisoners were not to be taken. They were to be lectured on the error of their ways and released. Injured enemies were to be given medical treatment. This was both to appear to be the bigger person and a practical move as guerrillas were in no position to create and run prisoner camps. Guerrilla warfare's intent was to wear down the opponents to a tipping point where the population would feel motivated to join en mass. A captured and released soldier might be less willing to put his life on the line for a second time.


This book still contains practical information. Engage the enemy only when you know you will win. Always make sure that when you engage the enemy, that you will capture enough ammunition to replace what was expended. Keep civilian casualties at a minimum; these are your allies and when acts of sabotage are needed, carry them out where they hurt the enemy and not the local population. Do not blow up a soft drink factory; it serves no military purpose. Concentrate on what feeds your enemy: Power plants, ammunition factories, and places that produce war material.


Guerrilla Warfare is an idealist type of book. It instructs on what makes a guerrilla a hero and leaves out what happens when things go wrong. It is written to make fighting an oppressor morally right and a noble cause. Guevara insists that outside government forces and influence should be kept out of the struggle. Why change from one master for another? In keeping with that theme, he does not mention communism or socialism. Interestingly, Yankee and Soviets are only mentioned twice. America, when used, refers to the hemisphere and not the US. A dated read in technology, but the marketing it still rings true. Selling an idea is not much different from selling a product. Perhaps Che was a bit more of a capitalist than he thought.

July 14,2025
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I plopped my white ass down onto the chair and got myself comfortable. I then proceeded to listen intently. There was a soft hum in the background, perhaps from the air conditioning or some other appliance. I could hear the faint rustle of papers as people around me moved or shuffled through their belongings. My ears were tuned in, ready to catch every word, every sound. I sat there, completely focused, my mind empty of all other thoughts except for the act of listening. It was a moment of stillness and concentration, as if the world around me had faded away and all that mattered was what I was about to hear.

July 14,2025
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Rahim Allah, "Comandante". I am not and will not be a warrior without this book. This book holds a special place in my heart and is an essential part of my being. It provides me with the strength, courage, and wisdom that I need to face the challenges of life. Without it, I would be lost and alone in this world. It is my guide, my mentor, and my friend. I cherish it and will always keep it close to me. I am grateful to Allah for blessing me with this wonderful book. May He continue to guide me and protect me on my journey through life.

July 14,2025
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What a strange book it is to have read this Sunday morning.

Well, it was indeed way less political than I had anticipated, and much more practical and militaristic. In fact, it was so militaristic that I was astonished that this was casually printed by a major publisher.

I can't claim that there are many life lessons to be drawn from this book, nor that its practical lessons have endured beyond its 60+ year lifespan. However, almost all of my preconceptions about Che have changed. He was an extremely articulate individual who knew precisely what he stood for.

Whether or not I concur with anything he believed in, this book is at the very least a testament to his principles and beliefs. I mean, he literally sacrificed his life for them.

It makes me think about the power of conviction and how far one is willing to go for what they believe in.

Although the book may not have had a profound impact on my personal life, it has definitely given me a new perspective on Che and his ideology.

Perhaps I will explore more about his life and work in the future to gain a deeper understanding.

Overall, it was an interesting read that challenged my initial assumptions.

July 14,2025
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The book offers valuable perspectives for present-day community activism.

The significance of education, organization, and community involvement in revolutionary struggles, which Guevara stressed, can be generalized to contemporary grassroots movements.

His ideas regarding the role of guerrilla fighters in aiding and mobilizing local communities can also be relevant to nonviolent movements.

Although Guevara's methods may not be directly applicable anymore, his emphasis on building robust and unified communities in the face of oppression remains highly relevant today.

'Guerrilla Warfare' is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the history of revolution and social change, as well as for modern activists seeking inspiration and guidance.

It provides a wealth of knowledge and ideas that can be adapted and utilized in different contexts to drive positive social transformation.

By studying Guevara's work, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise in the pursuit of social justice and use this knowledge to inform our own activism.

Whether we are involved in peaceful protests, community organizing, or other forms of social action, the lessons from 'Guerrilla Warfare' can help us to be more effective and strategic in our efforts.

Overall, this book is an important resource for anyone interested in making a difference in the world.
July 14,2025
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Audiobook.

An extremely insightful theoretical book that delves deep into the art of waging a guerrilla war. Beyond just the practical logistical suggestions, Guevara truly gets to the core of what it means to be a guerrilla fighter. He emphasizes the importance of dedication to the cause of liberation and making morally sound decisions.

Guevara had strict rules for his guerillas. He made them avoid alcohol and gambling, instead focusing on reading history and theory. This was to ensure that they were well-informed and had a clear understanding of the struggle. Additionally, he made sure that his guerillas treated the civilian populations with the utmost respect. This not only endeared them to the local people but also helped to build a sense of trust and support.

The reader gets a vivid sense of what the guerrilla war was like for the Cuban revolutionaries. It is important to note that Guevara is quick to point out that this book is not a Bible. It is simply a method that worked in the specific context of Cuba. However, he believes that it can be adapted and molded to fit other situations and contexts.
July 14,2025
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Rambling and repetitive in certain parts, the text transitions from general theory to extremely specific tactical advice that would only be applicable in a very, very particular place and time.

However, what astonished me the most was that it was more idealistic than I had anticipated. My understanding of Guevara and the Cuban Revolution is extremely limited. But, based on the little I know about his later life, I had expected a more ruthless perspective. For instance, captured soldiers were supposed to be treated for their wounds and then released after a lecture.

I hadn't initially intended to delve into this complex topic. But after purchasing two of his books a few months ago during my visits to second-hand bookshops, it seems that I will require some more background information!

Perhaps further research will provide a more comprehensive understanding of Guevara's ideals and the context in which they were formed.

It will be interesting to see how his ideas evolved over time and how they influenced the course of history.

Overall, this unexpected encounter with Guevara's works has piqued my curiosity and left me eager to learn more.
July 14,2025
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It is very beautiful and it consists of the diaries of the friend Jeffara.

There is a lot of wisdom in it.

These diaries seem to be a precious treasure chest, filled with Jeffara's thoughts, experiences, and insights.

As we read through them, we can discover the beauty and depth of his inner world.

The wisdom contained within these pages is not only profound but also applicable to our own lives.

It can inspire us, guide us, and help us make better decisions.

Jeffara's diaries are a wonderful source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of self-reflection and writing.

They allow us to see the world through his eyes and learn from his experiences.

Overall, this collection of diaries is a must-read for anyone who is interested in personal growth, wisdom, and the human experience.

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