Dense, anti-colonial theory; Fanon understood, better than perhaps anyone else, ever, what liberation struggle requires. Essential reading.

In his book, Fanon engages in a lengthy inspection of the implications of colonialism on the colonized people, their journey to achieve national consciousness, and eventually liberation. As a trained psychiatrist, Fanon specifically places emphasis on the psyche of the individual who deals with oppression, and how this impact extends to a social collective, with a whole chapter dedicated to cases of mental illnesses caused directly by trauma related to colonialism.

I must admit that I was not well acquainted enough with the history of African colonialism to understand the full scope of Fanon's arguments, but a point that stood out to me most was how colonialism relies heavily on the dehumanization of the native to subjugate them, but by their willingness to carry out horrific acts of violence it is actually the colonizers that deny themselves of their humanity. Such examples that Fanon includes in his case analyses are not only native Algerians traumatized by war and torture, but European officers who are driven mad by their interrogation and torture of Algerians. This book does not shy away from the graphic details of atrocities committed by colonizers on African soil, appalling yet a potent recall to Fanon's justification of violence as a rightful means to overthrow the oppressor. Fanon's manifesto for decolonization is written with urgency and ardor, and remains an indispensable voice for countries on the uneasy path of regaining their sovereignty amidst the aftershock of emancipation— not just for Africa, but many communities fighting for liberation to this very day.