Prelude to Revolution is an essential history of the May 1968 protests and upheaval in France, during which French workers staged the first wildcat general strike in history and the largest general strike to this day. Daniel Singer discusses how these actions changed the world. Prelude to Revolution is the indispensable study of May 1968. Many generations have looked to older editions of this book for inspiration. Singer was widely considered the most adept interpreter of European politics for American audiences. He shows here how change happens - and why it is needed.