Practices of Authoritarianism - AHA

Introduction

These Authoritarianism 101 modules are concerned with the practices and tools of authoritarian rule. They examine such issues as the political, economic, social or cultural dimensions of a particular authoritarian turn; the daily workings of an authoritarian regime; how authoritarian states seek legitimacy; surveillance and the rule of law in authoritarian states; and individual and civil society support for and collaboration with authoritarian states.

Practices of 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

Magazine cover showing a young boy smiling with one arm raised in salute

Italy | 1931

Authoritarian Aesthetics and Youth Appeals

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

Cuba | 1961

Culture Matters to Authoritarians

Color photograph of a man standing in front of four military tanks on an empty street.

China | 1989

What Authoritarians Do When Big Protests Break Out

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

Black and white photograph showing firefighters struggling to put out the fire in the Reichstag building. Billows of smoke can be seen above the ornate building.

Germany | 1933

Manufacturing Crisis in Authoritarian States

The poster features a large towering figure over a group of buildings. At the bottom, there is a boat, and a man and ox pulling a plow.

Poland | 1930

Visual Iconographies of Authoritarian Rule