5th Meeting: Antifascist Book Club Leader Guide

Welcome to the fifth meeting of your Antifascist Book Club! This guide will help you facilitate a discussion on Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present by Ruth Ben-Ghiat, focusing on the vulnerabilities of authoritarian leaders and the role of resistance movements. Use the discussion prompts and action steps to deepen your group's understanding and commitment.

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The PDF version includes extended discussion prompts, deeper analysis of key themes, and additional resources for continuing the conversation.

Purpose of This Meeting

This session will focus on Part 3 of Strongmen, examining the factors that contribute to the downfall of authoritarian leaders and the role of organized resistance. The discussion will explore historical patterns, weaknesses of authoritarian regimes, and how these lessons apply to contemporary struggles.

Objectives of This Meeting

• Analyze the internal and external forces that lead to the downfall of authoritarian leaders.

• Examine historical and contemporary resistance movements.

• Discuss how opposition is organized and what factors lead to success or failure.

• Reflect on how these lessons can inform present-day antifascist efforts.

1. Welcome & Opening Thoughts (10-15 min)

• Reiterate the goals of the book club and today’s discussion.

• Invite members to share initial reactions to Part 3 of Strongmen.

2. Understanding the Core Themes (20-30 min)

Discussion Areas:

• Resistance: What strategies have historically been effective against authoritarian regimes?

• Endings: What patterns emerge in the downfall of strongmen?

• Institutional Roles: How do institutions like the military and judiciary impact the stability of authoritarian rulers?

Guiding Questions:

• Which resistance movements discussed were most impactful, and why?

• What are common weaknesses among strongmen that lead to their downfall?

• How do these historical lessons apply to current political movements?

3. Making Contemporary Connections (10 min)

• Identify current authoritarian leaders facing resistance or instability.

• Discuss the role of international pressure in weakening authoritarian regimes.

4. Looking Ahead & Actionable Steps (10 min)

• Encourage members to consider how resistance strategies can apply today.

• Prepare for the next discussion on the conclusion of Strongmen.

5. Conclusion & Next Steps (5-10 min)

• Thank members for their participation.

• Confirm the next meeting’s topic: Strongmen, Conclusion & Epilogue.

Continue the Journey

• Go to the 6th Meeting Guide

• Return to the Leader Guides Index

📥 Download the expanded PDF version with additional details(Placeholder)

For more resources, visit the main Antifascist Book Club page.