The armed forces are infected by the mood. The future of capitalism hangs in the balance, but within weeks the strike breaks up and 'order' is restored. De Gaulle and the right wing win the biggest parliamentary election victory in post-war France.

How did the movement develop? Could similar events take place elsewhere - including Britain? Could capitalism have been overthrown? These and many other questions are answered in this book.

Clare Doyle was a visitor to France in 1968 and on many occasions since. As a member of the Militant Editorial Board, she has played a central role over many years developing the fundraising of the Militant, as well as writing particularly on international affairs.