Democracy Awakening

Notes on the State of America

By: Heather Cox Richardson

Narrated by: Heather Cox Richardson

A New York Times Bestseller

A vital and urgent call to action about the precarious state of American democracy, charting its historical challenges and current threats, from one of our era’s most important and insightful historians, with a new afterword by the author.

“Magisterial.” –The Washington Post

“An excellent primer for anyone who needs the important facts of the last 150 years of American history–and how they got us to the sorry place we inhabit today.” –Guardian

At a time when the very foundations of American democracy seem under threat, the lessons of the past offer a road map for navigating a moment of political crisis. In Democracy Awakening, acclaimed historian Heather Cox Richardson delves into the tumultuous journey of American democracy, tracing the roots of Donald Trump’s “authoritarian experiment” to the earliest days of the republic. She examines the historical forces that have led to the current political climate, showing how modern conservatism has preyed upon a disaffected population, weaponizing language and promoting false history to consolidate power.

With remarkable clarity and the same accessible voice that brings millions to her newsletter, Letters from an American, Richardson wrangles a chaotic news feed into a story that pivots effortlessly from the Founders to the abolitionists to Nixon to the January 6 insurrection. An essential read for anyone concerned about the state of America, Democracy Awakening is more than a history book; it’s a call to action. Richardson reminds us that democracy requires constant vigilance and participation from all of us, showing how we, as a nation, can take the lessons of the past to secure a more just and equitable future.

What happened and why it matters

HCR will tell you she is not a journalist but rather a historian. In that spirit it is her job to tell us not simply what happened, but why it matters. She provides, in a compelling & comprehensive context, a stark view of the state of Democracy.

Her writing style is enthralling.

This is one of those books where you may want to gift it to some of your more conservative-minded friends and family that have been duped by the nefarious actors who have hijacked the Republican Party of our time.

A call to action

What a great summary of our history of almost failed democracy. Not quite reaching full equality. Multiple times since the founding of America the beautiful. Here we are again on the brink. We need to wake up and find the courage to fight for our democracy, for our freedom. Vote BLUE!!

excellent scholarship

Outstanding scholarship in an understandable format - this should be required reading for every American voter.

History repeats itself!

Fascinating details, well documented, a very educational and factual account of US politics and history.

A compact review of political history in the US.

Review of political history in the US. Her insights are engaging and entertaining. A good listen.