Anti-Fascists : Jim McNeill and his mates in the Spanish Civil War by Michael Samaras

Anti-Fascists : Jim McNeill and his mates in the Spanish Civil War by Michael Samaras

Foreword by Rodney Cavalier

Paperback, 358 pages, $39.95

ISBN: 9781923224575

Published in Mid-March 2025

The Australians who fought against Franco in the Spanish Civil War were men and women of conscience. They were prescient in their understanding of fascism’s threat and convinced that taking up arms against it was the right thing to do. 

This is the story of Jim McNeill, his mates and comrades. They were Australia’s pioneers against fascism.

This book is a deeply researched account of the history and motivation of a small band of courageous Australians who, without government approval or support, travelled to Spain in a vain attempt to defeat fascism. A great read for any history buff.
John Faulkner, Former Labor Senate Leader.

With a meticulous historical eye and elegant prose, Michael Samaras brings to life the courage and commitment of Jim McNeill and other Australians who fought fascism in Spain. This remarkable book represents the long overdue historical remembrance of an overlooked group of extraordinary Australian women and men.
Paul Daley, Author and Guardian writer.

This book tells the stories of those Australians in the 1930s who understood that evil must be confronted and put their lives on the line in the struggle against fascism. Their stories are as relevant today as they ever were.
Luke Foley, Former Leader of the NSW Labor Party.

In this study of the Australian antifascist movement, Michael Samaras highlights the biographies of core figures, some well-known, others less so or, as in a number of cases, where the memory of the individual’s activism has been forgotten. The portmanteau approach will appeal to Australian readers with an interest in Australian 20th century politics and society. Judith Keene, University of Sydney.

Michael Samaras is a Sydney-based researcher and writer. In 2022 he uncovered the Nazi past of the founding benefactor of the Wollongong Art Gallery. This is his first book.