40 pages • 1 hour read
On Tyranny
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Book Brief
128
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, a #1 New York Times bestseller published in 2017, outlines how tyrants like Hitler and Stalin undermined 20th-century democracies, highlighting similar threats in modern America. Yale professor Snyder details demagogic tactics such as mythologizing past national greatness, leveraging lies and intimidation, and exploiting crises to overtake liberties and control nations. Sensitive topics in the book include the use of hate symbols, war crimes, and political persecution.
Informative
Challenging
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
95,244 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny is praised for its timely, concise guide on resisting authoritarianism. Readers appreciate its historical lessons and clear, actionable advice. However, some critique its brevity and simplicity, finding it lacking in depth. Overall, it's seen as a compelling, urgent read in today's political climate.
Who Should Read On Tyranny?
A reader passionate about history, politics, and safeguarding democracy would enjoy On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder. Similar to fans of George Orwell’s 1984 and Hannah Arendt’s The Origins of Totalitarianism, they appreciate concise, practical guides on recognizing and resisting authoritarianism.
95,244 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
128
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
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