Tear Gas: From the Battlefields of World War I to the Streets of Today

In this compelling exploration, Anna Feigenbaum traces the haunting journey of tear gas from its origins in the devastation of World War I to its modern-day applications in urban protests and civil unrest. The narrative reveals how this chemical weapon, initially designed to incapacitate enemies in warfare, has evolved into a tool wielded against dissent. Through a historical lens, Feigenbaum examines the ethical ramifications of its usage and the societal impact of militarized policing.

With meticulous research and thought-provoking insights, the work invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of employing chemical agents for crowd control. It challenges the perception of tear gas as a non-lethal means of managing public order and raises urgent questions about human rights and the politics of fear. This examination is both timely and essential, shedding light on the complex interplay between power, resistance, and the tragic legacy of this once-military weapon.