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The Anatomy of Fascism

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The Anatomy of Fascism

By: Robert O. Paxton
Narrated by: Arthur Morey
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About this listen

What is fascism? By focusing on the concrete, what the fascists did rather than what they said, the esteemed historian Robert O. Paxton answers this question for the first time. From the first violent uniformed bands beating up "enemies of the state", through Mussolini's rise to power, to Germany's fascist radicalization in World War II, Paxton shows clearly why fascists came to power in some countries and not others, and he explores whether fascism could exist outside the early-20th-century European setting in which it emerged.

The Anatomy of Fascism will have a lasting impact on our understanding of modern European history, just as Paxton's classic Vichy France redefined our vision of World War II. Based on a lifetime of research, this compelling and important book transforms our knowledge of fascism.

©2007 Robert O. Paxton (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ethics & Morality Europe Philosophy Political Science Politics & Government Socialism Latin American Western Europe Interwar Period Capitalism Imperialism Russia War Soviet Union Middle Ages Self-Determination Liberalism Marxism Refugee Italy Social justice

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All stars
Most relevant
A subtle and measured analysis of the key features and techniques of fascism. By focussing on the deeds and strategies of various fascist parties and regimes, rather than their words or public image, Paxton arrives at an effective working model of what constitutes fascism. In the present political moment, such an account has never been more urgently necessary or seemed more soberingly accurate.

Chillingly Timely

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Clearly and expediently delivered by Arthur Morey, Robert O.Paxton presents a nuanced, multi-faceted view of the Fascist regimes of the 20th century. Withholding generalisations, Paxton details the attributes of the Third Reich and RFP, distinguishing the differences between the two as well as the factors which led to their rise. Paxton places this analysis in a wider European, and then global, context, leaving the listener with a multiplicitous portrait of Fascism, which goes beyond its common attributes.

Thematical yet narrative.

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A fascinating and somewhat worrying analysis and history of fascism. The main focus is obviously on Germany and Italy, but there are some interesting discussions on fascism outside of Europe and in the modern age. The narrator was excellent as well in an understated way. Overall a fascinating book throughout.

Excellent

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My mum grew up next to a concentration camp in Austria in the 30s-40s and my dad was in the RAF. I have a genuine lust for knowledge about fascism, especially why and how it came about. Also about the signs of it happening again. This book brought some well needed perspective to my mind. If you are looking for an all right wing people are fascists narrative, go elsewhere. I will listen to it again, probably more than once. Without stopping being a liberal. It confronted some of my assumptions though, and what more could I ask of a book

Genuinely enlightening

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The author near the end of the book raises doubts that Fascism could reoccur in most countries unless some unforeseen event occurred - 9/11, financial crisis of 2007 onwards with the austerity, Brexit, Trump. Attacks on the ' Other' immigrants Antisemitism. I long for the 1990s when I had hope. By the way. very good and thoughtful book giving analysis and not just a narrative historical account.

It can't happen here! ?????

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