Challenging Authoritarianism - AHA

Introduction

These Authoritarianism 101 modules concentrate on resistance to an authoritarian turn and explore everyday histories of living under authoritarian rule. They examine a variety of civil society challenges, including resistance to repression of freedom of expression and other civil liberties, challenges by Indigenous peoples to authoritarian governance, efforts to maintain resilience in the face of state brutality, and the use of satire in mobilizing strategies of resistance.

Challenging Authoritarianism Modules

The movie poster shows "Casblanca" written across the center. The main actors names--Humphry Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid-- are listed across the top. Headshots of the characters are placed across the poster.

Morocco and United States | 1942

Patriotism and Authoritarian Resistance

Five panels comic strip showing Mafalda, Miguelito, and the policeman. There is minimal background in each panel with just a slight sketch of buildings visible.

Argentina | 1969

Cartooning as Anti-Authoritarian Resistance

Black and white photograph of Castro sitting at a table speaking into a microphone.

Cuba | 1961

Culture Matters to Authoritarians

Charlie Chaplin, dressed as a Hitler-like character, sits atop a large desk. he is holding a large globe in one hand and is gazing up.

United States | 1940

Satire and Authoritarian Ideologies

Photograph showing a white square building. On two sides, about two dozen men are waiting to climb through second story windows into the building via ladders. Several men stand on the roof, along with the Egyptian flag.

Egypt | 2005

Elections in Authoritarian Regimes

Painting of Charles II. He is sitting on a throne wearing a dramatic cape and crown. A large tapestry can be seen behind him.

Massachusetts Bay Colony | 1665

Challenging Royal Authoritarian Power

Photograph of a large pile of pink crackers in the shape of guns. In the back right corner of the exhibit, a small table and chair are visible.

Indonesia | 1977

Everyday Authoritarianism

Black and white headshots of two men wearing suits.

Turkey | 1980

Authoritarian Capitalism

Black and white photograph of Dilma sitting with her hands folded in a chair. Two men can be seen behind her covering their faces.

Brazil | 1970

Authoritarian Anxieties and the Pantomime of Democracy