Revolution by Fire: New York's Afro-Irish Uprising of 1741—A Graphic Novel

by David Lester, Paul Buhle (contributor), David Lester

Based on the little known real life "Slave Insurrection" of 1741, this book imagines outlaw fugitive John Gwin and an eclectic crew of renegades as they attempt to disrupt and overthrow the colonial social order Rebel fugitive John Gwin was previously introduced in Under the Banner of King Death and this graphic novel continues his adventures. Revolution by Fire is a hypothetical look at the inner workings of the so called “New York Conspiracy” or "Slave Rebellion" of 1741, following the figures who were considered the real-life masterminds of the plot. Featuring an eclectic crew of African-American, Irish, and mixed race Hispanic sailors, soldiers, and renegades, Gwin and his band are determined to capture New York City in their own names and fight the higher class “wigs and ruffles” wearing white people. Unfortunately for the conspirators, suspicions about an uprising were already in the minds of the Governor and his fellow elites, and the events that followed change the course of everyone’s lives forever. Based on the chapter titled “Outcasts of the Nations of the Earth” in Rediker’s and Peter Linebaugh’s The Many-Headed Sailors, Slaves, Commoners, and the Hidden History of the Revolutionary Atlantic, the book provides a fly-on-the-wall view of a historical event reimagined, highlighting cooperation among races and classes that transcends the social order of its time—and inspire us today.

Genres: Graphic Novels, History, Comics, Nonfiction, Graphic Novels Comics

176 pages, Paperback

Published November 12, 2024

Reviews

[Tri · Rating 4 out of 5]

*This book was received for free as a part of a Goodread’s Giveaway*

A very brutal and incredible point in US history, retold in a graphic novel.
This moment in history wasn’t taught in my public schools, so it was nice to read about it now.
The art style itself is unique, although it often made it difficult to discern one person from another. The flow was also sometimes hard to follow, but thankfully the novel itself is short and easy to breeze through.

[Monica · Rating 3 out of 5]

The subject matter was really interesting but the way it was told felt a little rushed. I want to know more details and understand the people better. I love the framing of why this story is being told but the way it was executed wasn’t really it for me.

[Peter Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tells the totally forgotten/unknown but gripping story of a planned uprising of the people--enslaved Africans, poor Irish, Cuban sailors, and more--in NYC in 1741. The illustrations by Lester are excellent! The research by Marcus Rediker (and Peter Linebaugh) impressive. The short essay at the end by Paul Buhle on the power of comics as "history from below" very thoughtful!

[Sunwish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Won this in a Goodreads giveaway

Marcus Rediker and David Lester’s Revolution by Fire: New York’s Afro-Irish Uprising of 1741 is a provocative and imaginative exploration of a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in early American history. The graphic novel masterfully combines striking visuals with a gripping narrative, weaving a tale of resistance, solidarity, and rebellion against systemic oppression in colonial New York.

Rediker and Lester reimagine the historical events surrounding the 1741 New York Conspiracy, speculating on the alliances between enslaved Africans and Irish indentured laborers. By focusing on the potential collaboration between these marginalized groups, the authors craft a story that challenges traditional historical narratives and highlights the power of unity in the face of exploitation.

The artwork, illustrated by Lester, is raw and evocative, with bold strokes that capture the fiery spirit of rebellion and the emotional weight of the characters’ struggles. The use of fire as both a literal and metaphorical motif throughout the story is particularly effective, symbolizing destruction, resistance, and the hope for transformation.

What sets this graphic novel apart is its ability to blend historical fact with speculative fiction, offering readers a new perspective on the social and political dynamics of the era. While the story is fictionalized, it is rooted in meticulous research, as evidenced by Rediker’s expertise in maritime and labor history. This balance of historical authenticity and creative storytelling makes Revolution by Fire both educational and deeply engaging.

However, some readers may find the speculative nature of the narrative unsettling, particularly if they are looking for a strictly historical account. The authors make it clear that their work is an interpretation rather than a definitive history, but this distinction may not resonate with everyone.

Ultimately, Revolution by Fire is a bold and thought-provoking work that invites readers to reexamine the connections between race, class, and resistance in early American history. It is a testament to the enduring power of solidarity and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of oppression. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, graphic novels, and radical history.

[Lamadia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked this up because the historical event seemed really interesting, and I wanted to learn more about it. This book did not live up to its promise. It somehow was boring and confusing. I didn't end up with any more knowledge than I had with the description. I really didn't like the art style at all either. The book just seems to start with stating that these people are having an uprising without letting us get to know the characters or care about them at all. Who are these people, and why should we like them? It's technically a novelization of an event, but there isn't any novelization at all. It's just dry facts drawn out with artwork that makes it hard to figure out who did what. I still want to know more about the uprising, but I think I'll just read a regular history book for that.

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never heard of the New York Conspiracy/Slave Rebellion of 1741 when African-American, Irish, and mixed race Hispanic sailors plotted to take control of the city. This fascinating GN is based on historical events that still have relevance today; when do a group of individuals who are denied equal access to the law have a right to revolt against the system that silences their voices?

[Jen Olson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Won this through a Goodreads give away. The story itself was a good and informative re-telling of an event in history. The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars and not 4 is some of the graphics were a bit mature in nature. This would have been perfect for my middle school readers, but some of the drawings were a bit explicit..... and it wasn't needed for the telling of the story.

[Kristen Luppino · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful story and illustrations. There was some jumping characters that made me look to see if I missed a page a few times, but I'd recommend!

[Jessica Nish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had never heard of this Afro Irish uprising happening in NYC in the 1700s. Would be interesting to have a movie on this topic post “Sinners” to show what alliance can be between oppressed peoples.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this, great work from writing to art.