When Fascism Comes Wrapped in the Flag and Carrying a Cross
7 days ago
- #Authoritarianism
- #Historical Parallels
- #American Democracy
- Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel 'It Can't Happen Here' predicted the rise of fascism in America, disguised as patriotism and religion.
- Authoritarianism follows a historical playbook: appeals to national greatness, religious co-optation, institutional capture, cult of personality, and enemy creation.
- Current political tactics in the U.S. mirror historical authoritarian strategies, including nationalist rhetoric, religious imagery, and attacks on democratic institutions.
- The weaponization of religious and national symbols deceives people into supporting authoritarianism under the guise of defending values.
- Examples from 1930s Germany and 1990s Venezuela show how democracies erode through gradual institutional capture and propaganda.
- The article warns of the dangers of ignoring these patterns, emphasizing the need for vigilance to protect democratic norms.
- The author, a conservative Republican and ordained minister, calls for recognition of these threats beyond partisan lines.
- The piece concludes with a urgent call to action to prevent the collapse of American democracy, stressing that time is running out.