It has often been said that we can learn from history to prevent future mistakes. The caveat is that we have to be willing to understand what went wrong in order to make sure that it won’t happen again.
Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, by Ruth Ben-Ghiat, was published in 2021. In the book, the author traces the history of autocratic and fascist leaders over the last 100 years. She starts with Benito Mussolini, and ends with modern leaders such as you know who and Vladimir Putin. Though they come from different parts of the world and speak different languages, the blueprint is the same:
- Subjugation and persecution of minorities, perceived enemies, the LGBTQ community, and those with opposing political views.
- Degrading women down to the traditional roles of wives and mothers (with the exception of the females in their personal orbit).
- Proclaim that they are the one person who can save their country.
- They claim to protect “democracy” and ensure law and order while doing the very opposite.
I think this book is a must-read for everyone who believes in a democratic government and what it stands for. As the last few years have shown us, complacency opens the door to a form of government that manipulates and destroys. It is only when we respect and fight for the constitutional way of life can we truly be free.
Do I recommend it? Yes.
Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present is available wherever books are sold.
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