Strongmen, Part 1

This session will focus on Ruth Ben-Ghiat’s Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, specifically examining the processes through which authoritarian leaders rise to power. Covering the introduction and Part 1 (Fascist Takeovers, Military Coups, and New Authoritarian Ascents), the discussion will explore historical examples, the socio-political conditions that facilitate authoritarianism, and the mechanisms through which strongmen seize control.

Objectives of This Meeting

• Analyze the key arguments presented in the introduction and Part 1 of Strongmen.
• Identify common patterns among historical authoritarian takeovers.
• Discuss the role of democratic fragility in enabling authoritarian ascents.
• Draw connections between Ben-Ghiat’s analysis and contemporary global politics.