Unraveling the Threads: Comparing the Rise of Right-Wing Movements Across History
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At CPAC on Thursday, hosted by Hungary, Viktor Orban, the populist prime minister, likened liberalism to a “virus” in his opening speech, painting a picture of a global right-wing movement mobilizing to defeat “progressive elites.” He went on to demonize so-called “woke culture” and spoke passionately about hot-button topics such as transgender and LGBTQ+ rights, Immigration and the content of education for children. Think Ron DeSantis, and Florida.
I also read an excellent article by Thomas Hartmann discussing Hungary’s Prime Minister and those extreme right-wing policies. Seeing how Orbán’s approach in Hungary might influence the right-wing movements in other countries, including the United States, is concerning. In addition, the comparisons between the MAGA movement and Hitler’s National Socialists are growing. Could we end up with a more totalitarian state if Trump were elected again?
I believe it’s essential to consider the historical context when comparing these movements, as their similarities are unlikely to lead to the same outcomes. A little perspective can help us understand the differences in their actions and consequences, making it easier to see how the situations might not be as closely aligned as they might appear at first glance.
Germany in the 1930s was going through some tough times, with the Treaty of Versailles and the Great Depression causing a lot of economic hardship. Hitler and his party seemed like a way out, promising to bring back prosperity and national pride. Hitler was super charismatic, and he had a way of tapping into people’s frustrations and resentments. He blamed the economic crisis on the Treaty of Versailles, communists, and the Jewish population. His propaganda and the party’s paramilitary wing, the SA, helped solidify their position in German society.
Now, when we look at the MAGA movement and Trump, there are some similarities. After the 2008 financial crisis and recession, many Americans felt disillusioned with the political establishment. Trump positioned himself as an outsider who could bring about real change and make America great again. His charismatic and divisive communication style resonated with a segment of the American population, especially those who felt left behind by globalization, economic shifts, and social progress. His rallies and social media presence allowed him to speak directly to his supporters, bypassing traditional media outlets.
Viktor Orbán’s right-wing policies in Hungary demonstrate how populist leaders can capitalize on similar frustrations and resentments, adopting nationalist and conservative stances to rally support. Orbán’s government has been criticized for eroding democratic institutions, restricting press freedom, and promoting a more authoritarian style of governance. These developments in Hungary could inspire or encourage right-wing movements in other countries, including the United States.
So yeah, there are definitely some similarities between Hitler’s rise to power, the MAGA movement, and the rise of right-wing populism in countries like Hungary. These leaders emerged after significant economic crises and exploited popular discontent to gain power. They were skilled communicators who used mass media to spread their message and galvanize their bases.
However, it’s also crucial to recognize the differences between these movements. The National Socialists were responsible for totalitarian policies, suppressing dissent, and orchestrating the Holocaust, which resulted in the deaths of millions of innocent people. In contrast, the MAGA movement operates within the framework of the American democratic system, and Orbán’s government, while criticized for eroding democratic institutions, has not engaged in the same level of atrocities as the National Socialists.
So, while there are some similarities between the rise of Hitler and the National Socialists in 1930s Germany, the modern-day MAGA movement, and right-wing populism in countries like Hungary, these movements are fundamentally different in terms of their actions and consequences. It’s essential to keep that historical context and those sociopolitical factors in mind when comparing them, especially when considering the possibility of a more totalitarian state if Trump were to be elected again or the influence of leaders like Viktor Orban.
To avoid further comparisons, one must nurture the fervent hope that Donald Trump never again disgraces the Oval Office.
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It’s early in the game. Economic disaster is still possible and may be imminent. Is this why they’re trying to default? Is it just about an opportunity for them to step in and “fix Biden’s mistakes?” I’m already seeing posts about how he’s irrevocably harmed the economy? True, Hitler didn’t have the kind of help these insurrectionists have from Christian organizations, but he did benefit from 1800 years of institutional antisemitism. You’re right that history doesn’t repeat reliably enough to be reliable, but I’ve never been this pessimistic about our future.
Same here, and I’m old.