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The Age of the Strongman

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Gideon Rachman

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A sweeping and penetrating global analysis of the perilous state of our world, this work by a highly respected international politics reporter examines the rise of authoritarian leaders and the new nationalism that characterizes contemporary governance. Since 2000, self-styled strongmen have emerged in diverse capitals, including Moscow, Beijing, and Washington, promoting nationalism and social conservatism while showing little tolerance for dissent or minority rights. These leaders position themselves as defenders of ordinary citizens against global elites and cultivate a cult of personality. Notably, this trend is not confined to authoritarian regimes; strongmen have also gained traction in liberal democracies. The turning point in the West can be traced to the 2016 EU referendum and the election of Donald Trump, but the roots of this phenomenon extend back to the early 2000s with Vladimir Putin's ascent in Russia. The text explores the implications of this leadership style for global stability, including the potential for war or economic collapse, and examines the liberal forces that may counteract these trends. Amid a global pandemic and looming environmental crises, the actions of these leaders have far-reaching consequences. By analyzing figures like Trump, Putin, and Xi, the author uncovers common themes and offers a new framework for understanding the interconnected nature of these developments.