This is the history of the most significant translator, publisher, and distributor of left-wing literature in the United States. Based in Chicago and still publishing, Charles H. Kerr & Company began in 1886 as a publisher of Unitarian tracts. The company's focus changed after its founder, the son of abolitionist activists, became a socialist at the turn of the century.

Tracing Kerr's political development and commitment to radical social change, "We Called Each Other Comrade" also tells the story of the difficulties of exercising the First Amendment in an often hostile business and political climate. A fascinating exploration in left-wing culture, this revealing chronicle of Charles H. Kerr and his revolutionary publishing company looks at the remarkable list of books, periodicals, and pamphlets that the firm produced and traces the strands of a rich tradition of dissent in America.

Featuring a new foreword and comprehensive bibliography of all titles published by Charles H. Kerr Publishing Company, this updated record chronicles the history of the most significant translator, publisher, and distributor of left-wing literature in the United States history. These pioneers of the publishing world fought battles in court and presented unpopular ideas so that great new literary, scientific, and historical thought could be expressed and propagated. The Charles H. Kerr Publishing Company was one of the forefathers of this type of publishing house, and this book demonstrates the great works they produced ties into many of the great aspects of social movements from the 20th century up through the present day.