The Iron Heel

Historical Context and Significance

Jack London's «The Iron Heel», published in 1908, is one of the earliest works in the dystopian genre. The book describes a future where an oligarchy, known as the Iron Heel, suppresses the working class and establishes a totalitarian regime. London uses the novel to critique capitalism and warn of the potential consequences of social inequality and political apathy. The book's influence on culture is significant, as it inspired many subsequent dystopian works and remains relevant in discussions about social justice and political power.