American Fascism

Authoritarianism, White Supremacy, and the Struggle for Freedom

From early fascist sympathizers in the 20th century to the post-9/11 surveillance state, the United States has grappled with the tension between democracy and authoritarianism. In Authoritarian America: The Hidden History of Power, Fear, and Control, Muhammad Abdelwahid offers a bold, deeply researched exploration of how fear, racial hierarchy, and state power have repeatedly reshaped American society.

Tracing a century of history—from the rise of the carceral state, Jim Crow, and the Southern Strategy, to neoliberal policies, mass incarceration, and the digital surveillance era—this book reveals the hidden mechanisms that have allowed authoritarian practices to coexist with democracy.

Through clear analysis, compelling case studies, and historical narratives, Abdelwahid demonstrates how these trends continue to shape politics, policing, and civil liberties in the 21st century. More than a history, Authoritarian America is a call to vigilance: understanding the past is essential to protecting freedom, equality, and justice today.