Abe Bluestein was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on November 1, 1909. He grew up and attended school at the anarchist-founded Modern School at the Ferrer Colony, at Stelton, New Jersey.

Like many anarchists born in the early 20th century, Abe came from a radical, immigrant family. His Russian parents, Mendel & Esther Bluestein, were active in the anarchist group in the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union.

As a  young man, he was one of the few Americans to fight on the anarchist side during the Spanish Civil War.   He worked in the propaganda department, preparing radio broadcasts, and was acquainted with Emma  Goldman in her last years.

Abe was a co-editor of the newspapers Vanguard and Challenge, co-editor of News From Libertarian Spain, and also edited works for the Libertarian Book Club. He lived with Selma Cohen Bluestein for many years; they married as grandparents to secure their right to Social Security.

Abe Bluestein died on December 3, 1997 in Ossining, New York