Prequel

An American Fight Against Fascism

De: Rachel Maddow

Narrado por: Rachel Maddow

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Rachel Maddow traces the fight to preserve American democracy back to World War II, when a handful of committed public servants and brave private citizens thwarted far-right plotters trying to steer our nation toward an alliance with the Nazis.

“A ripping read—well rendered, fast-paced and delivered with the same punch and assurance that she brings to a broadcast. . . . The parallels to the present day are strong, even startling.”—The New York Times (Editors’ Choice)

Inspired by her research for the hit podcast Ultra, Rachel Maddow charts the rise of a wild American strain of authoritarianism that has been alive on the far-right edge of our politics for the better part of a century. Before and even after our troops had begun fighting abroad in World War II, a clandestine network flooded the country with disinformation aimed at sapping the strength of the U.S. war effort and persuading Americans that our natural alliance was with the Axis, not against it. It was a sophisticated and shockingly well-funded campaign to undermine democratic institutions, promote antisemitism, and destroy citizens’ confidence in their elected leaders, with the ultimate goal of overthrowing the U.S. government and installing authoritarian rule.

That effort worked—tongue and groove—alongside an ultra-right paramilitary movement that stockpiled bombs and weapons and trained for mass murder and violent insurrection.

At the same time, a handful of extraordinary activists and journalists were tracking the scheme, exposing it even as it was unfolding. In 1941 the U.S. Department of Justice finally made a frontal attack, identifying the key plotters, finding their backers, and prosecuting dozens in federal court.

None of it went as planned.

While the scheme has been remembered in history—if at all—as the work of fringe players, in reality it involved a large number of some of the country’s most influential elected officials. Their interference in law enforcement efforts against the plot is a dark story of the rule of law bending and then breaking under the weight of political intimidation.

That failure of the legal system had consequences. The tentacles of that unslain beast have reached forward into our history for decades. But the heroic efforts of the activists, journalists, prosecutors, and regular citizens who sought to expose the insurrectionists also make for a deeply resonant, deeply relevant tale in our own disquieting times.

©2023 Rachel Maddow (P)2023 Random House Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

"TV host and political commentator Rachel Maddow shines at framing the backstory of current American politics in her latest audiobook, narrated in her signature forthright style.... As Maddow employs her customary earnest tone and unhurried cadence, her wry storytelling ability is on full display. The result is a terrifyingly familiar look at America's earlier, and continuing, dance with fascism." (AudioFile)

“Maddow’s sublime research into the precursors of current existential threats is astonishingly deep. She finds rabbit holes even rabbits are unaware of.” —Booklist, starred review

“America beat fascism once. Maddow’s timely study of enemies on the homefront urges that we can do so again.” —Kirkus, starred reviews

“Maddow’s book is a ripping read—well rendered, fast-paced and delivered with the same punch and assurance that she brings to a broadcast. . . . Prequel is a valuable window into the authoritarian mind-set—and the process by which self-professed patriots turn against democracy . . . the parallels to the present day are strong, even startling . . .” —The New York Times

OMG!!

This book is so interesting, well-read, and informative. Rachel is too awesome for words! She is a GREAT storyteller. You will love this book.

Rachel the educator

Rachel’s research into our nation’s history, relating to today’s political climate is fascinating. I learn so much from reading her books and listening to her podcasts. Rachel reading the book herself is a definite bonus.

All young adults should read this book

This account of US history should be part of every high school curriculum. If Pearl Harbor had never happen, we might have lost our democracy. We came very close to losing our way of life. Its a fight that never ends. History has lessons for us if we choose to hear about it. Thanks Rachel.

An outstanding performance

Prequel is an amazing story of how powerful people can become a danger to our democracy. It brings to life how important our rights can be taken away from us by a corrupt government.

The writing is on the wall

Rachel has pulled together the details so that we can see what is happening in our country today. Those who do not study history are doomed to repeat it! Take heed.

Rachel ALWAYS gives the FACTS!!!

She does the research and tells the whole story. Love listening to her books. She’s a constant defender of the truth!!!

The deep history of the Alt right or fascist movements in the United States.

How much our history is speaking to us through the cultural and political issues of today.

A fascinating spotlight on homegrown politics

Rarely mentioned nowadays were the actors and actions detailed in this book. How Americans in surprising numbers from all levels of society supported and invited authoritarian ideas, particularly Hitler. I found its detailed research equal parts fascinating, illuminating, and sobering. Recommend reading.

Couldn’t stop listening!

I was sad when I realized that the book was almost over and I wanted to know so much more. Rachel should receive an award but the journalist received!

History should be our guide.

As always, Rachel Maddow gives us the real truth!!! May this book educate and inspire us in the next election!