Super Short Summary

How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky explores the threats to American democracy by examining past examples of democratic breakdown, showing that most democracies now die through the gradual weakening of norms and institutions rather than violent overthrow. The authors discuss how political gatekeeping, norms, and institutions have historically protected democracy, but recent changes and events, including Donald Trump's presidency, pose significant risks. They propose rebuilding democratic norms and cultivating a diverse coalition to defend democracy in the United States. The book addresses anti-black racism and political extremism.