This is an introductory history text on the various groups who have called themselves anarchist, with a heavy European bias. Of the American anarchists, for example, only Emma Goldman is mentioned, and only insofar she comments on European affairs. Concepts in anarchism are only interesting for the author if they lead to conflicts or schisms.

The Dutch translator of this book, Leo Klatser, was a volunteer for the international brigades, and adds increasingly furious subscripts whenever he disagrees with the author about the facts of the Spanish civil war.