In "Requiem for Revolution," Ruth Leacock unfolds the intricate tapestry of political ambitions, ideological battles, and the stark realities of power that reshaped Brazil and echoed across the Americas in the mid-20th century. At the heart of this narrative is the charged vision of President John F. Kennedy, who, in 1961, called for a revival of revolutionary spirit across the continent—a vision of democracy and freedom that would guide the struggling peoples everywhere, steering clear of imperialism. Leacock deftly navigates the reader through the tumultuous events leading up to the 1964 Brazilian coup, an event that, paradoxically, diverged drastically from both the revolution sought by Brazil's Left and the democratic ideals championed by Kennedy. With remarkable precision, Leacock reveals how the United States, under the guise of anti-communism, played a pivotal role in reshaping Brazil's political landscape, supporting a military regime that would go on to suppress civil liberties and employ brutal tactics against its own people. Through exhaustive research and compelling narrative, "Requiem for Revolution" not only exposes the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and its ramifications for Latin America but also invites a critical reflection on the nature of revolution and the cost of political change. This book stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom and justice, challenging readers to reconsider the legacy of a pivotal era in American and Latin American history.