The Geography of Freedom: The Odyssey of Elisée Reclus
Marie Fleming

French geographer Elisée Reclus (1830-1905) was a visionary with an insatiable curiosity for the intricate relationship between human beings and our environment. Throughout his illustrious career, he emphasized the vital role of nature in societal progress, ultimately advocating for a greater understanding of ecology in a movement away from state authority and towards self-management.  

However, Reclus's bold convictions and activism came at a cost. Acting as a National Guard during the monumental 1871 Paris Commune, he openly opposed the Versailles government, for which he was exiled from France. Settling in Switzerland, he devoted himself to crafting his magnum opus, the celebrated 19-volume La Nouvelle Géographie universelle. This monumental work meticulously explored the interconnectedness of landscapes and human societies around the globe, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in geographical studies.

Despite enduring political persecution, Reclus continued to publish prolifically until his death, delving into diverse topics such as feminism, marriage, naturism, and anarchism. Over time, his position in radical thinking has only waned, leaving a gap in history where he once stood. Fleming's definitive biography offers a compelling reintroduction to Reclus, shedding new light on his profound influence on 19th-century anarchism and political theory.

Dr. Marie Fleming is a professor of political science at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario. 

Praise for The Geography of Freedom

"This biography by Marie Fleming is highly recommended as a comprehensive, readable survey of the life and ideas of Reclus... the best source of information on Reclus in English... Fleming's work is far superior as a presentation of Reclus as a complex human being and a fascinating historical figure." - John Clark, review published in Social Anarchism (1996)

"A solid addition to the resurgence of anarchist scholarship." - Choice

"Fleming has contributed to our understanding of nineteenth-century anarchist theory by exploring the life of a figure largely unknown to historians of political thought." - American Political Science Review

"Fills a significant gap... not simply of historical significance, but will be seen as relevant today by those concerned about moral values and our social life." - Canadian Journal of Political Science 

1988; 245 pages

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