Timothy Snyder’s On Tyranny distills history into twenty concise lessons to help us avoid repeating past mistakes and resist authoritarianism. This short book is both a historical analysis and a manual for safeguarding democracy.

Snyder examines the small steps that paved the way for 20th-century tyrannies like Nazism and Stalinism. Instead of focusing on grand events, he highlights subtle shifts—“Do not obey in advance,” defend institutions, protect language and truth. For example, Snyder shares the chilling story of 1930s Germans saluting the Nazi flag before it became law, illustrating how small acts of compliance enable larger atrocities.

The book’s brevity is its strength. Each lesson is impactful, blending historical context with practical advice. Suggestions like “Beware paramilitaries” and “Be reflective if you must carry arms” might seem obvious, but Snyder’s historical framing gives them urgency.

Though shaped by the Trump era, Snyder’s lessons transcend American politics, addressing authoritarian trends worldwide. His assertion that “To abandon facts is to abandon freedom” resonates in today’s climate of misinformation, where truth erosion undermines democracies. If nothing is true, accountability vanishes, leaving the wealthiest voices unchallenged.

As a personal reflection, I worry about how the Sweden Democrats, a party founded by Nazis, now collaborate with the government in Sweden. This mirrors broader European trends where populist movements gain mainstream acceptance, normalizing extremism and eroding ethical boundaries. Snyder’s lessons about defending institutions and resisting incremental normalization feel particularly urgent in this context, highlighting the universal relevance of his warnings. Snyder’s warning about defending institutions feels painfully relevant, urging us to resist compromises that undermine democracy.

On Tyranny is more than a book; it’s a call to arms. Democracy, as Snyder insists, is fragile and requires active, informed participation. His lessons compel readers to confront uncomfortable truths and act to uphold democratic values. Support journalism, engage locally, foster dialogue—the survival of democracy depends on us all.

Summary: Snyder’s urgent guide blends historical insights and practical advice, reminding us how quickly democratic values can erode. Will we act before it’s too late? On Tyranny is essential reading for anyone committed to resisting authoritarianism and safeguarding democracy.

Recommended for: Anyone interested in history, civic engagement, and understanding the subtle steps toward tyranny—and how to resist them.