Wilson Center
The 1930s as an Inspiration for Today’s New Authoritarianism
Contemporary regime change from liberal democracy towards authoritarianism has precedents, such as the fascist takeovers of the 1930s. This is not a matter of comparison so much as it is one of instruction: the authoritarians of today refer to, and sometimes model themselves upon, figures from an era we once thought forever discredited. No one can return to the 1930s. As Professor Snyder discussed, the attempt to do so has profound implications for the western political order we have learned to take for granted.
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Overview
Contemporary regime change from liberal democracy towards authoritarianism has precedents, such as the fascist takeovers of the 1930s. This is not a matter of comparison so much as it is one of instruction: the authoritarians of today refer to, and sometimes model themselves upon, figures from an era we once thought forever discredited. No one can return to the 1930s. As Professor Snyder discussed, the attempt to do so has profound implications for the western political order we have learned to take for granted.
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Kennan Institute
The Kennan Institute is the premier US center for advanced research on Eurasia and the oldest and largest regional program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The Kennan Institute is committed to improving American understanding of Russia, Ukraine, Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the surrounding region though research and exchange. Read more
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