The recent resurgence of populist movements and parties has led to a revival of scholarly interest in populism. This volume brings together well-established and new scholars to reassess the subject and combine historical and theoretical perspectives to shed new light on the history of the subject, as well as enriching contemporary discussions.

In three parts, the contributors explore the history of populism in different regions, theories of populism and recent populist movements. Taken together, the contributions included in this book represent the most comprehensive and wide-ranging study of the topic to date. Questions addressed include:
- What are the 'essential' characteristics of populism?
- Is it important to distinguish between left- and right-wing populism?
- How can the transformation of populist movements be explained?

This is the most thorough and up to date comparative historical study of populism available. As such it will be of great value to anyone researching or studying the topic.

John Abromeit is Associate Professor of History at SUNY, Buffalo State, USA. He is the author of Max Horkheimer and the Foundations of the Frankfurt School (2011) and Herbert Marcuse: A Critical Reader (2004).

Gary Marotta is Professor of History at Buffalo State, The State University of New York, USA

York Norman is Assistant Professor of History at Buffalo State, The State University of New York, USA

Bridget María Chesterton is Assistant Professor of History at Buffalo State, The State University of New York, USA