First published in 1969, Bandits inspired a new field of historical study.
It appears at a time when the disintegration of state power is once again introducing fertile conditions for banditry to flourish in many parts of the world..
For this new edition Hobsbawm has substantially extended and revised his original text.
The result is a dazzling historical squib, fizzling with ideas and strange stories ( The Guardian ).
In his celebrated study of these fascinating figures, Eric Hobsbawm, one of the few genuinely great historians of our century ( The New Republic ), spans four hundred years and four continents, setting these historical figures against the ballads, legends, and films they have inspired.
Others, like Balkan haiduks , Indian dacoits , and Brazilian congaceiros , are known only to their own countrymen.
Some, like Robin Hood, Rob Roy, and Jesse James, are famous throughout the world, the stuff of story and myth.
Bandits transcend the label of criminals; they are robbers and outlaws elevated to the status of avengers and champions of social justice.
First published in 1969, this now-classic book inspired a whole new field of historical study and brought its author popular acclaim.
Photos and illustrations.
In this updated edition, Hobsbawm continues his study of famous bandits, from Robin Hood to Jesse James, and sets these folk heroes against the ballads and legends they inspired.
First published in 1969, Bandits inspired a new field of historical study
