Do most of our Trump supporters understand that they're supporting fascism?

T. A. Gardner said:
Nepotism can be, but it isn't generally a major option. The children of top leaders in a fascist, or other authoritarian, government are generally granted some special, elite, position of power somewhere in the whole of the government hierarchy.
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it has nothing to do with the definition of fascism.
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
I think I might know. Tell me if I am wrong. Let's see Fascism is: "LOW LIFE RACIST NAZI ASS TRUMPED UP MAGA SHIT" How's that? This is fun. Got any more?
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No, that's the I know it when I see it answer. It says you haven't got a fucking clue what fascism is and are just using it as a swear word because you hate Trump.
 
T. A. Gardner said:
No, that's the I know it when I see it answer. It says you haven't got a fucking clue what fascism is and are just using it as a swear word because you hate Trump.
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Ok, so maybe it's time we went back to school. So, class let's talk about something really important called fascism. Fascism is a way of running a country where almost all the power is in the hands of one person or a small group, and they don’t let anyone else have a say in how things are done. Imagine if, here in fascism study class, one student was suddenly in charge of everything and got to make every rule without asking anyone else. No one else could suggest ideas or even question the rules, and anyone who tried to disagree would get in trouble. That’s a lot like how fascism works: the leader makes all the decisions, and everyone has to follow along without questioning it. Not good huh?

Fascism often shows up when people in a country are feeling stressed, frustrated, or scared—like if the economy is bad, or if people feel like the country isn’t doing as well as it used to. In those times, a leader might come along and say, “I alone can make things right,” or “Only I can make the country strong again.” People who are feeling worried might like that idea and start to believe that this one leader has all the answers. Fascist leaders will often say things to make people blame certain groups, like immigrants or people with different beliefs, for the country’s problems. They try to convince people that if everyone just unites under one strong leader and listens to that leader’s rules, things will get better.

Now, here in the United States, we have something very different called democracy. Democracy is a type of government where everyone has a chance to be heard, to vote, and to help make decisions. In a democracy, we don’t rely on one person to make every choice. Instead, we have different branches of government that share the power and make sure no one person can control everything. And here’s the important part: in a democracy, people can question the leaders without getting in trouble, because we believe that different ideas and opinions make the country stronger, not weaker. Freedom of speech, the right to vote, and laws that protect people’s rights—these are all important parts of a democracy that give power to the people, not just the leaders.

But in a fascist government, things work very differently. Fascist leaders don’t like to be questioned. They believe that they know best, and they don’t allow anyone to disagree with them. They want everyone to be united behind one single idea, and they think that anyone who questions them is disloyal or even dangerous. They try to control what people see and hear, making sure only the messages they want are out there. If people disagree with them or protest, they might be silenced, punished, or even forced to leave the country.

Now, when people talk about former President Donald Trump, especially those who didn’t agree with him, they sometimes say they were worried he was showing signs of acting like a fascist leader. Not because he turned our government into a fascist state, but because of some things he said and did that seemed to go against democratic values. For example, he often called the media “fake news” if they reported things he didn’t like and told his supporters not to trust reporters or critics. He would sometimes act as if people who disagreed with him weren’t just people with different opinions, but actually enemies of the country. Some people felt he encouraged his supporters to believe that he alone could solve the country’s problems. This made some Americans nervous, because in a democracy, we expect leaders to be open to questions, to listen to others, and to respect that not everyone will agree with them.

So, when people worry about leaders acting like fascists, they’re really just worried about keeping our democracy safe. Fascism and democracy are opposites in many ways: democracy is about sharing power, respecting everyone’s rights, and welcoming different ideas, while fascism is about one leader having all the control and shutting down anyone who disagrees. Knowing the difference helps us understand why it’s important to protect a system where everyone can speak up and work together to make things better.

Ok, class, if anyone doesn’t understand or has questions, please speak up! Let’s see if we can make this even clearer, because understanding this is really important. We live in a democracy, and knowing how it’s different from something like fascism helps us appreciate why our rights to speak, question, and participate matter so much.

For tonight’s assignment, I want you to do a little research on fascism to see how it has worked in history. You can choose one of these topics:

  1. Pick a country or leader from history that used fascism—like Italy under Mussolini or Germany under Hitler—and write a short summary of what life was like for people there. Focus on how much control the government had over people’s lives.
  2. Think about the differences between democracy and fascism and write down three freedoms or rights we have in a democracy that people in a fascist government might not have. Explain why each one is important for a fair society.
  3. Imagine you are living in a country where only one leader makes the rules. Write a paragraph about what it might feel like if you couldn’t speak up or ask questions, and how it would be different from what we have in a democracy.
Remember, this isn’t just about history; it’s about understanding why our freedom and ability to participate in government are things we should never take for granted. I look forward to reading what you come up with! Happy studies! 😊
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
Ok, so maybe it's time we went back to school. So, class let's talk about something really important called fascism. Fascism is a way of running a country where almost all the power is in the hands of one person or a small group, and they don’t let anyone else have a say in how things are done. Imagine if, here in fascism study class, one student was suddenly in charge of everything and got to make every rule without asking anyone else. No one else could suggest ideas or even question the rules, and anyone who tried to disagree would get in trouble. That’s a lot like how fascism works: the leader makes all the decisions, and everyone has to follow along without questioning it. Not good huh?

Fascism often shows up when people in a country are feeling stressed, frustrated, or scared—like if the economy is bad, or if people feel like the country isn’t doing as well as it used to. In those times, a leader might come along and say, “I alone can make things right,” or “Only I can make the country strong again.” People who are feeling worried might like that idea and start to believe that this one leader has all the answers. Fascist leaders will often say things to make people blame certain groups, like immigrants or people with different beliefs, for the country’s problems. They try to convince people that if everyone just unites under one strong leader and listens to that leader’s rules, things will get better.

Now, here in the United States, we have something very different called democracy. Democracy is a type of government where everyone has a chance to be heard, to vote, and to help make decisions. In a democracy, we don’t rely on one person to make every choice. Instead, we have different branches of government that share the power and make sure no one person can control everything. And here’s the important part: in a democracy, people can question the leaders without getting in trouble, because we believe that different ideas and opinions make the country stronger, not weaker. Freedom of speech, the right to vote, and laws that protect people’s rights—these are all important parts of a democracy that give power to the people, not just the leaders.

But in a fascist government, things work very differently. Fascist leaders don’t like to be questioned. They believe that they know best, and they don’t allow anyone to disagree with them. They want everyone to be united behind one single idea, and they think that anyone who questions them is disloyal or even dangerous. They try to control what people see and hear, making sure only the messages they want are out there. If people disagree with them or protest, they might be silenced, punished, or even forced to leave the country.

Now, when people talk about former President Donald Trump, especially those who didn’t agree with him, they sometimes say they were worried he was showing signs of acting like a fascist leader. Not because he turned our government into a fascist state, but because of some things he said and did that seemed to go against democratic values. For example, he often called the media “fake news” if they reported things he didn’t like and told his supporters not to trust reporters or critics. He would sometimes act as if people who disagreed with him weren’t just people with different opinions, but actually enemies of the country. Some people felt he encouraged his supporters to believe that he alone could solve the country’s problems. This made some Americans nervous, because in a democracy, we expect leaders to be open to questions, to listen to others, and to respect that not everyone will agree with them.

So, when people worry about leaders acting like fascists, they’re really just worried about keeping our democracy safe. Fascism and democracy are opposites in many ways: democracy is about sharing power, respecting everyone’s rights, and welcoming different ideas, while fascism is about one leader having all the control and shutting down anyone who disagrees. Knowing the difference helps us understand why it’s important to protect a system where everyone can speak up and work together to make things better.

Ok, class, if anyone doesn’t understand or has questions, please speak up! Let’s see if we can make this even clearer, because understanding this is really important. We live in a democracy, and knowing how it’s different from something like fascism helps us appreciate why our rights to speak, question, and participate matter so much.

For tonight’s assignment, I want you to do a little research on fascism to see how it has worked in history. You can choose one of these topics:

  1. Pick a country or leader from history that used fascism—like Italy under Mussolini or Germany under Hitler—and write a short summary of what life was like for people there. Focus on how much control the government had over people’s lives.
  2. Think about the differences between democracy and fascism and write down three freedoms or rights we have in a democracy that people in a fascist government might not have. Explain why each one is important for a fair society.
  3. Imagine you are living in a country where only one leader makes the rules. Write a paragraph about what it might feel like if you couldn’t speak up or ask questions, and how it would be different from what we have in a democracy.
Remember, this isn’t just about history; it’s about understanding why our freedom and ability to participate in government are things we should never take for granted. I look forward to reading what you come up with! Happy studies! 😊
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The fascists are on the Left, as always. It wasn't Trump that tried to censor speech on the internet, it was the Democrats and Biden. Remember, he tried to set up a "Disinformation board" to censor speech.

Biden and the Democrats--going back to at least FDR--are the ones that want court packing when they don't get their way.

It isn't Republicans, or Trump, calling for wage and price controls. At the moment, that's Harris and the Democrats.

Did you know that it was Hitler that instituted the first ban on smoking in public?

Hitler and Mussolini were also for abortion on demand.

Fascists, like Democrats and the Left, love forcing people to use public transportation.

Fascists use lawfare and often have their political opposition arrested and imprisoned. Which political figure in the US has recently been subjected to that?
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
Fascist by Tim Goodwin

It starts so small, almost invisible—
a feeling of belonging, the warmth of a crowd
that calls itself strong, unbreakable, sure.
You tell yourself it’s just a way to rebel,
to take back power, to feel like you matter.
But beneath it all, there’s a word waiting,
a word you ignore fascism.

You don’t notice as it sinks in, as it spreads,
as it becomes something you wear like armor,
something that turns every doubt into rage,
every question into weakness to be silenced.
The voices around you grow louder, harder,
and you feel the pull to shut out everything else,
to let go of softness, of compassion, of doubt,
and to accept it, to become what they call strength.

You ignore the moments that feel wrong,
the way people flinch, the fear in their eyes,
the quiet way they step back from your path.
It’s easier not to look, to push it away,
to call it loyalty, to call it pride,
but there it is, cold and heavy: fascism.

One day, you look in the mirror, and you see it.
Fascism staring back at you, in your own eyes,
in the hard line of your mouth, in the coldness
that’s taken root and won’t let go.
You feel it now—fascism in your blood,
fascism in your words, in the way you think.
This isn’t rebellion. This isn’t power.
It’s fascism, and it’s wrapped around you,
too tight to shake off, too deep to deny.

You didn’t mean to get here, but here you are,
a fascist, through and through, with nowhere to turn.
And now you wonder, with a sinking dread,
if there’s any way back from this,
or if fascism is all you have left.

Because you see it now, raw and relentless—
the way it’s clung to you, crept into your skin,
until you don’t know where it ends, and you begin.
Fascism in your thoughts, fascism in your voice,
fascism in your silence, in your very name.

And you stand there, staring at yourself,
and you know the truth, plain and unyielding:
fascism is who you’ve become.
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So you have no clue. Thats what i figured
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
I have a clue because I have a brain, and I use it. You on the other hand making statements such as that show your lack of same. Engage brain my friend before operating mouth or giving opinions.
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No you dont. If you did you be able to tell me in your own words what fascist is and how trump is a fascist. Sorry but im not impressed by copy and pasted bullshit. Thats the arena of leftist parrots
 
The one saving grace to the MAGA voter is that they are, on average, too stupid to know what words mean.


Notice how they operate:

1. Trump says <insert Nazi phrase directly out of Mein Kampf here>
2. The left says "Gosh that's a Nazi phrase directly form Mein Kampf! He must be a Nazi-friendly candidate"
3. The MAGA folks scream "He's not a Nazi...YOU'RE a Nazi"

You can find the same thing that they've done with words like "Fascist", "rapist", etc. It's always the same.
 
Yakuda said:
No you dont. If you did you be able to tell me in your own words what fascist is and how trump is a fascist. Sorry but im not impressed by copy and pasted bullshit. Thats the arena of leftist parrots
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In that case then a simple version just for you. Trump=Fascism, Trump is the poster boy for Fascism, Maga=Fascism. Now if you know what maga and trump is then there ya go.
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
In that case then a simple version just for you. Trump=Fascism, Trump is the poster boy for Fascism, Maga=Fascism. Now if you know what maga and trump is then there ya go.
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There is no value in discussing the definition of words with people who neither have the vocabulary nor are interested in being reminded that they are openly and actively supporting fascism.

There's no world based in reality in which anyone with even a modicum of basic knowledge would say Trump was anything other than a fascist.
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
In that case then a simple version just for you. Trump=Fascism, Trump is the poster boy for Fascism, Maga=Fascism. Now if you know what maga and trump is then there ya go.
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So AGAIN you are just making a claim but you cant tell us why and how hes a fascist. Just like a leftist
 
Yakuda said:
So AGAIN you are just making a claim but you cant tell us why and how hes a fascist. Just like a leftist
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Jesus, dude. THis has been hashed out about a billion times all over the internet. Are you too stupid to read it?

What do you even know about fascism? You didn't even get your GED let alone stay awake in history class. And I'm pretty sure you're convinced if you read a book you would turn gay.
 
Yakuda said:
So AGAIN you are just making a claim but you cant tell us why and how hes a fascist. Just like a leftist
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It's just another Leftist who is telling you fascism is I know it when I see it. No logic or facts involved. The other version would be similar to that of the religiously devout believer, The mainstream media (or Leftist government) wrote it. I believe it. That ends it.
 
Yakuda said:
So AGAIN you are just making a claim but you cant tell us why and how hes a fascist. Just like a leftist
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In recent discussions (not mentioning any names) within this forum, the term "fascism" has surfaced frequently, prompting questions about its precise meaning and relevance in today's political landscape. Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ultranationalist ideology that emerged in early 20th-century Europe, notably under leaders like Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler in Germany. It is characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, strong regimentation of society and the economy, and often a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism.

Understanding fascism's historical context and core principles is essential for informed discourse, especially when evaluating contemporary political figures and movements. This exploration aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of fascism's origins, defining features, and its manifestations across different eras. By examining historical examples and drawing parallels to modern political dynamics, we can better assess claims of fascist tendencies in current leadership and understand the implications for democratic values and institutions.

Fascism, as both a political ideology and a movement, has exerted a profound and devastating impact on modern history. It is defined by an authoritarian structure in which power is centralized under a charismatic leader or elite, who uses this power to reshape the state according to nationalist, ethnocentric, or exclusionary ideals. Fascism thrives on control, glorifying the state above the individual and dismissing or persecuting those considered "other" or nonconforming. Its leaders leverage collective anxieties to paint themselves as indispensable protectors of the nation, using fear and crises—often fabricated or exaggerated—as pretexts to erode democratic institutions, suppress dissent, and push forward militaristic and often xenophobic policies. Understanding fascism requires a close look at its origins, its defining features, and the devastating effects it has had in dismantling democracies around the world. Equally important is recognizing how these characteristics have re-emerged in contemporary politics, particularly in the United States under the leadership of Donald Trump.

Historically, fascism first took root in the post-World War I period, with Benito Mussolini establishing the first fascist government in Italy. Mussolini’s vision of a "reborn" Italy, glorifying past empires, resonated amid widespread economic and political instability. Fascism, as Mussolini defined it, rejected both socialism and liberal democracy, proposing instead a model where corporations, the military, and the state operated as one. The aim was to suppress class conflicts and political opposition by aligning all sectors under a single, authoritarian rule. Mussolini dismantled democratic institutions, stifled civil liberties, and elevated himself as the ultimate authority, appealing to Italian nationalism and a mythic past. Hitler’s Nazi regime in Germany, which intensified the racial purity and antisemitism inherent in fascism, took this framework further, implementing a violently exclusionary state. Hitler’s policies of racial supremacy led directly to the Holocaust, one of the most horrific acts of genocide in history, and the militarization of Germany fueled an aggressive expansionism that resulted in World War II. The fascist regimes of Italy and Germany, through total control of the state and an elimination of opposition, demonstrated how the authoritarian impulses of fascism can drive a society toward catastrophic destruction.

Key to the function of fascism is the identification and vilification of an enemy, often an ethnic, religious, or political minority, portrayed as a threat to the nation's purity and strength. This scapegoating process unites the populace by redirecting societal frustrations onto a common adversary, thereby legitimizing the repression of these groups. Under fascist regimes, freedom of speech is typically curtailed, with independent media either suppressed or co-opted into a propaganda apparatus. Fascist leaders exert control over information to prevent dissenting opinions and critical perspectives from reaching the public. This undermining of truth and intellectual freedom enables leaders to present themselves as the ultimate source of legitimacy and to maintain a narrative in which they alone stand between the nation and its collapse.

In contemporary politics, Donald Trump’s actions and rhetoric have often drawn strong parallels to fascist practices, particularly his attacks on democratic norms, his appeals to an exclusionary nationalism, and his repeated attempts to erode checks and balances. Trump’s presidency was marked by a divisive "America First" platform, which, while framed as patriotism, often carried undertones of exclusion and nativism. His rhetoric on immigrants and minority groups displayed a consistent pattern of scapegoating, from describing Mexican immigrants as "criminals and rapists" to implementing a ban on Muslim-majority countries, which he justified as a national security measure. This tactic aligns closely with the fascist approach of creating a unified identity by casting certain groups as outsiders or threats, thus fostering a sense of fear and grievance among his base.

One of the most striking examples of Trump’s alignment with fascist behavior was his consistent assault on the free press. Trump repeatedly referred to the media as the "enemy of the people," a phrase directly reminiscent of fascist language, where independent media is seen as a threat to state power and national unity. By delegitimizing the press, Trump created an environment in which only his narrative held legitimacy, effectively isolating his supporters from any information that contradicted his claims. This tactic mirrors how Mussolini and Hitler controlled information, positioning themselves as the ultimate arbiters of truth while delegitimizing any opposition as biased, treasonous, or corrupt.

Trump's disdain for democratic institutions became even more explicit during his attempts to undermine the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election. Despite overwhelming evidence that the election was fair, Trump and his allies spread baseless claims of widespread voter fraud, encouraging his followers to view the results as a product of a vast conspiracy. His rhetoric around the "stolen" election was not only inflammatory but also dangerous, leading directly to the January 6 Capitol insurrection. During this violent attempt to overturn the democratic process, Trump urged his supporters to "fight like hell" and refrained from intervening as the situation escalated. This willingness to disrupt the democratic transition of power, coupled with his unfounded claims of election fraud, echoes the fascist impulse to undermine or completely circumvent electoral legitimacy in favor of a single leader's claim to authority.

Additionally, Trump’s response to racial justice protests, particularly in the wake of George Floyd's death, displayed a fascist-like approach to law enforcement and public dissent. Rather than engaging with the issues raised by the protests, Trump opted for an authoritarian crackdown, using federal officers in unmarked vehicles to arrest protestors in cities like Portland. His administration’s reaction—one focused on suppressing rather than addressing dissent—revealed a troubling comfort with using state violence against civilians, another hallmark of fascism. Trump’s approach to protest and dissent was to delegitimize it as a form of social decay, justifying the need for a strong, often militarized, response that favored “law and order” over civil liberties or constructive dialogue.

These examples reflect a broader pattern of Trump’s fascistic tendencies, from his scapegoating of vulnerable groups to his attacks on democratic institutions and his comfort with state violence. By leveraging fear, manipulating narratives, and undermining democratic processes, Trump’s actions paralleled those of fascist leaders who prioritized personal power and control over democratic principles and accountability. His disregard for the rule of law, particularly his attempts to manipulate the judiciary and obstruct investigations into his administration, further highlight his authoritarian inclinations. Trump's presidency thus illustrates how a leader who values personal loyalty and unchecked power over the integrity of democratic institutions can threaten the foundation of a free society.

In stark contrast, democratic governance is founded on principles of pluralism, accountability, and respect for individual rights. In a democracy, the government is accountable to the people, who have the right to participate in political processes and voice dissent. Democratic societies protect the freedom of the press, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that power is distributed among institutions to prevent any one individual or group from seizing control. Leaders in democratic countries do not cast themselves as ultimate authorities but instead are meant to act as representatives, bound by the limits of the law and the will of the people.

Examples of democratic leaders who have navigated crises while maintaining these values abound. Franklin D. Roosevelt in the United States, for example, faced the Great Depression and World War II but consistently reinforced the nation’s democratic framework through policies that expanded social welfare without curtailing civil liberties. Similarly, Nelson Mandela, upon ending apartheid in South Africa, pursued a democratic vision focused on reconciliation and inclusion rather than vengeance or dominance. These leaders demonstrated that democratic principles could be maintained even in difficult times, using pluralism and the rule of law as sources of strength rather than treating diversity or dissent as weaknesses.

On a global scale, democracy remains crucial for peace, cooperation, and the promotion of human rights. Organizations like the United Nations and the European Union, though imperfect, strive to foster democratic governance and uphold human rights as universal values. In a world facing transnational challenges—from climate change to economic inequality—democratic structures provide a framework for collaboration, allowing nations to address these issues through collective action rather than unilateral, authoritarian force. Democratic nations generally seek to resolve conflicts through diplomacy and uphold a global order based on mutual respect, principles that fascist ideologies inherently oppose.

The distinction between fascism and democracy is ultimately one of repression versus freedom, exclusion versus inclusion, and authoritarianism versus accountability. Fascism concentrates power, breeds division, and thrives on fear, while democracy disperses power, values diversity, and upholds individual rights. As history has shown, fascism’s impulse toward total control and the suppression of dissent inevitably leads to the degradation of society, while democracy—despite its challenges—remains the most effective defense against tyranny. The preservation of democracy depends on a society’s commitment to these values and its vigilance in recognizing and rejecting the authoritarian tendencies that, as recent years have shown, can threaten even the world’s most established democracies.

I hope this answers the question appropriately.
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
In recent discussions (not mentioning any names) within this forum, the term "fascism" has surfaced frequently, prompting questions about its precise meaning and relevance in today's political landscape. Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ultranationalist ideology that emerged in early 20th-century Europe, notably under leaders like Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler in Germany. It is characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, strong regimentation of society and the economy, and often a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism.

Understanding fascism's historical context and core principles is essential for informed discourse, especially when evaluating contemporary political figures and movements. This exploration aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of fascism's origins, defining features, and its manifestations across different eras. By examining historical examples and drawing parallels to modern political dynamics, we can better assess claims of fascist tendencies in current leadership and understand the implications for democratic values and institutions.

Fascism, as both a political ideology and a movement, has exerted a profound and devastating impact on modern history. It is defined by an authoritarian structure in which power is centralized under a charismatic leader or elite, who uses this power to reshape the state according to nationalist, ethnocentric, or exclusionary ideals. Fascism thrives on control, glorifying the state above the individual and dismissing or persecuting those considered "other" or nonconforming. Its leaders leverage collective anxieties to paint themselves as indispensable protectors of the nation, using fear and crises—often fabricated or exaggerated—as pretexts to erode democratic institutions, suppress dissent, and push forward militaristic and often xenophobic policies. Understanding fascism requires a close look at its origins, its defining features, and the devastating effects it has had in dismantling democracies around the world. Equally important is recognizing how these characteristics have re-emerged in contemporary politics, particularly in the United States under the leadership of Donald Trump.

Historically, fascism first took root in the post-World War I period, with Benito Mussolini establishing the first fascist government in Italy. Mussolini’s vision of a "reborn" Italy, glorifying past empires, resonated amid widespread economic and political instability. Fascism, as Mussolini defined it, rejected both socialism and liberal democracy, proposing instead a model where corporations, the military, and the state operated as one. The aim was to suppress class conflicts and political opposition by aligning all sectors under a single, authoritarian rule. Mussolini dismantled democratic institutions, stifled civil liberties, and elevated himself as the ultimate authority, appealing to Italian nationalism and a mythic past. Hitler’s Nazi regime in Germany, which intensified the racial purity and antisemitism inherent in fascism, took this framework further, implementing a violently exclusionary state. Hitler’s policies of racial supremacy led directly to the Holocaust, one of the most horrific acts of genocide in history, and the militarization of Germany fueled an aggressive expansionism that resulted in World War II. The fascist regimes of Italy and Germany, through total control of the state and an elimination of opposition, demonstrated how the authoritarian impulses of fascism can drive a society toward catastrophic destruction.

Key to the function of fascism is the identification and vilification of an enemy, often an ethnic, religious, or political minority, portrayed as a threat to the nation's purity and strength. This scapegoating process unites the populace by redirecting societal frustrations onto a common adversary, thereby legitimizing the repression of these groups. Under fascist regimes, freedom of speech is typically curtailed, with independent media either suppressed or co-opted into a propaganda apparatus. Fascist leaders exert control over information to prevent dissenting opinions and critical perspectives from reaching the public. This undermining of truth and intellectual freedom enables leaders to present themselves as the ultimate source of legitimacy and to maintain a narrative in which they alone stand between the nation and its collapse.

In contemporary politics, Donald Trump’s actions and rhetoric have often drawn strong parallels to fascist practices, particularly his attacks on democratic norms, his appeals to an exclusionary nationalism, and his repeated attempts to erode checks and balances. Trump’s presidency was marked by a divisive "America First" platform, which, while framed as patriotism, often carried undertones of exclusion and nativism. His rhetoric on immigrants and minority groups displayed a consistent pattern of scapegoating, from describing Mexican immigrants as "criminals and rapists" to implementing a ban on Muslim-majority countries, which he justified as a national security measure. This tactic aligns closely with the fascist approach of creating a unified identity by casting certain groups as outsiders or threats, thus fostering a sense of fear and grievance among his base.

One of the most striking examples of Trump’s alignment with fascist behavior was his consistent assault on the free press. Trump repeatedly referred to the media as the "enemy of the people," a phrase directly reminiscent of fascist language, where independent media is seen as a threat to state power and national unity. By delegitimizing the press, Trump created an environment in which only his narrative held legitimacy, effectively isolating his supporters from any information that contradicted his claims. This tactic mirrors how Mussolini and Hitler controlled information, positioning themselves as the ultimate arbiters of truth while delegitimizing any opposition as biased, treasonous, or corrupt.

Trump's disdain for democratic institutions became even more explicit during his attempts to undermine the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election. Despite overwhelming evidence that the election was fair, Trump and his allies spread baseless claims of widespread voter fraud, encouraging his followers to view the results as a product of a vast conspiracy. His rhetoric around the "stolen" election was not only inflammatory but also dangerous, leading directly to the January 6 Capitol insurrection. During this violent attempt to overturn the democratic process, Trump urged his supporters to "fight like hell" and refrained from intervening as the situation escalated. This willingness to disrupt the democratic transition of power, coupled with his unfounded claims of election fraud, echoes the fascist impulse to undermine or completely circumvent electoral legitimacy in favor of a single leader's claim to authority.

Additionally, Trump’s response to racial justice protests, particularly in the wake of George Floyd's death, displayed a fascist-like approach to law enforcement and public dissent. Rather than engaging with the issues raised by the protests, Trump opted for an authoritarian crackdown, using federal officers in unmarked vehicles to arrest protestors in cities like Portland. His administration’s reaction—one focused on suppressing rather than addressing dissent—revealed a troubling comfort with using state violence against civilians, another hallmark of fascism. Trump’s approach to protest and dissent was to delegitimize it as a form of social decay, justifying the need for a strong, often militarized, response that favored “law and order” over civil liberties or constructive dialogue.

These examples reflect a broader pattern of Trump’s fascistic tendencies, from his scapegoating of vulnerable groups to his attacks on democratic institutions and his comfort with state violence. By leveraging fear, manipulating narratives, and undermining democratic processes, Trump’s actions paralleled those of fascist leaders who prioritized personal power and control over democratic principles and accountability. His disregard for the rule of law, particularly his attempts to manipulate the judiciary and obstruct investigations into his administration, further highlight his authoritarian inclinations. Trump's presidency thus illustrates how a leader who values personal loyalty and unchecked power over the integrity of democratic institutions can threaten the foundation of a free society.

In stark contrast, democratic governance is founded on principles of pluralism, accountability, and respect for individual rights. In a democracy, the government is accountable to the people, who have the right to participate in political processes and voice dissent. Democratic societies protect the freedom of the press, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that power is distributed among institutions to prevent any one individual or group from seizing control. Leaders in democratic countries do not cast themselves as ultimate authorities but instead are meant to act as representatives, bound by the limits of the law and the will of the people.

Examples of democratic leaders who have navigated crises while maintaining these values abound. Franklin D. Roosevelt in the United States, for example, faced the Great Depression and World War II but consistently reinforced the nation’s democratic framework through policies that expanded social welfare without curtailing civil liberties. Similarly, Nelson Mandela, upon ending apartheid in South Africa, pursued a democratic vision focused on reconciliation and inclusion rather than vengeance or dominance. These leaders demonstrated that democratic principles could be maintained even in difficult times, using pluralism and the rule of law as sources of strength rather than treating diversity or dissent as weaknesses.

On a global scale, democracy remains crucial for peace, cooperation, and the promotion of human rights. Organizations like the United Nations and the European Union, though imperfect, strive to foster democratic governance and uphold human rights as universal values. In a world facing transnational challenges—from climate change to economic inequality—democratic structures provide a framework for collaboration, allowing nations to address these issues through collective action rather than unilateral, authoritarian force. Democratic nations generally seek to resolve conflicts through diplomacy and uphold a global order based on mutual respect, principles that fascist ideologies inherently oppose.

The distinction between fascism and democracy is ultimately one of repression versus freedom, exclusion versus inclusion, and authoritarianism versus accountability. Fascism concentrates power, breeds division, and thrives on fear, while democracy disperses power, values diversity, and upholds individual rights. As history has shown, fascism’s impulse toward total control and the suppression of dissent inevitably leads to the degradation of society, while democracy—despite its challenges—remains the most effective defense against tyranny. The preservation of democracy depends on a society’s commitment to these values and its vigilance in recognizing and rejecting the authoritarian tendencies that, as recent years have shown, can threaten even the world’s most established democracies.

I hope this answers the question appropriately.
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You should have an attribution attached to that from wherever you cut and pasted it.

It's also, largely wrong.
 
T. A. Gardner said:
You should have an attribution attached to that from wherever you cut and pasted it.

It's also, largely wrong.
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It is absolutely correct, and attribution is written and copyrighted by Timmy O. Goodwin. Why do you assume if something is intelligent and/or intellectual it could not be written by anyone on this forum. Just because your intellectual compass is awash in the sea of idiocy doesn't mean we all are floating out to that idiotic sea on a raft full of moronic size holes.
 
Timmy O. Goodwin said:
Ok, so maybe it's time we went back to school. So, class let's talk about something really important called fascism. Fascism is a way of running a country where almost all the power is in the hands of one person or a small group, and they don’t let anyone else have a say in how things are done. Imagine if, here in fascism study class, one student was suddenly in charge of everything and got to make every rule without asking anyone else. No one else could suggest ideas or even question the rules, and anyone who tried to disagree would get in trouble. That’s a lot like how fascism works: the leader makes all the decisions, and everyone has to follow along without questioning it. Not good huh?

Fascism often shows up when people in a country are feeling stressed, frustrated, or scared—like if the economy is bad, or if people feel like the country isn’t doing as well as it used to. In those times, a leader might come along and say, “I alone can make things right,” or “Only I can make the country strong again.” People who are feeling worried might like that idea and start to believe that this one leader has all the answers. Fascist leaders will often say things to make people blame certain groups, like immigrants or people with different beliefs, for the country’s problems. They try to convince people that if everyone just unites under one strong leader and listens to that leader’s rules, things will get better.

Now, here in the United States, we have something very different called democracy. Democracy is a type of government where everyone has a chance to be heard, to vote, and to help make decisions. In a democracy, we don’t rely on one person to make every choice. Instead, we have different branches of government that share the power and make sure no one person can control everything. And here’s the important part: in a democracy, people can question the leaders without getting in trouble, because we believe that different ideas and opinions make the country stronger, not weaker. Freedom of speech, the right to vote, and laws that protect people’s rights—these are all important parts of a democracy that give power to the people, not just the leaders.

But in a fascist government, things work very differently. Fascist leaders don’t like to be questioned. They believe that they know best, and they don’t allow anyone to disagree with them. They want everyone to be united behind one single idea, and they think that anyone who questions them is disloyal or even dangerous. They try to control what people see and hear, making sure only the messages they want are out there. If people disagree with them or protest, they might be silenced, punished, or even forced to leave the country.

Now, when people talk about former President Donald Trump, especially those who didn’t agree with him, they sometimes say they were worried he was showing signs of acting like a fascist leader. Not because he turned our government into a fascist state, but because of some things he said and did that seemed to go against democratic values. For example, he often called the media “fake news” if they reported things he didn’t like and told his supporters not to trust reporters or critics. He would sometimes act as if people who disagreed with him weren’t just people with different opinions, but actually enemies of the country. Some people felt he encouraged his supporters to believe that he alone could solve the country’s problems. This made some Americans nervous, because in a democracy, we expect leaders to be open to questions, to listen to others, and to respect that not everyone will agree with them.

So, when people worry about leaders acting like fascists, they’re really just worried about keeping our democracy safe. Fascism and democracy are opposites in many ways: democracy is about sharing power, respecting everyone’s rights, and welcoming different ideas, while fascism is about one leader having all the control and shutting down anyone who disagrees. Knowing the difference helps us understand why it’s important to protect a system where everyone can speak up and work together to make things better.

Ok, class, if anyone doesn’t understand or has questions, please speak up! Let’s see if we can make this even clearer, because understanding this is really important. We live in a democracy, and knowing how it’s different from something like fascism helps us appreciate why our rights to speak, question, and participate matter so much.

For tonight’s assignment, I want you to do a little research on fascism to see how it has worked in history. You can choose one of these topics:

  1. Pick a country or leader from history that used fascism—like Italy under Mussolini or Germany under Hitler—and write a short summary of what life was like for people there. Focus on how much control the government had over people’s lives.
  2. Think about the differences between democracy and fascism and write down three freedoms or rights we have in a democracy that people in a fascist government might not have. Explain why each one is important for a fair society.
  3. Imagine you are living in a country where only one leader makes the rules. Write a paragraph about what it might feel like if you couldn’t speak up or ask questions, and how it would be different from what we have in a democracy.
Remember, this isn’t just about history; it’s about understanding why our freedom and ability to participate in government are things we should never take for granted. I look forward to reading what you come up with! Happy studies! 😊
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can we do something about this spam.
 
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