The Rise of the Dictators

Tease out the common denominators that lead to tyranny. Map the rise of some of the 20th century’s best-known dictators and discover how they seized power, exploited governing systems, and gutted existing power structures to gain total control.

The episode explores how dictators like Hitler and Mussolini used propaganda and violence to consolidate power, with the Great Depression contributing to widespread social unrest and opening the door for extremist ideologies to flourish.

Dictators may appear omnipotent, but their position depends largely on a network of individuals who benefit from their rule, and their support does not come cheap.

Dictators are characterized as charismatic, narcissistic and sadistic, but most of all by their thirst for power; once in power, holding on to it requires negotiation, coercion and force.

Examines how dictators often attempt to expand their jurisdiction beyond the borders of their country, usually leading to armed invasion and the death of large numbers of soldiers and civilians.

Consider the factors that inevitably cause dictatorships to crumble; look at how hubris destroys cults of personality; see how factions fracture military dictatorships; weigh the miscalculations that turn the tide against tyranny.