Books like The Road to Unfreedom by Timothy Snyder

In "The Road to Unfreedom," historian Timothy Snyder examines how the collapse of the Cold War and the perceived triumph of liberal democracy gave way to a revival of authoritarianism, beginning in Russia under Vladimir Putin. Snyder argues that Russian influence has spread through warfare in Ukraine, cyberattacks across Europe and the United States, and by fostering alliances with nationalist, oligarchic, and radical actors worldwide. The book links these developments to Western political upheavals such as the Brexit vote and Donald Trump’s election, illustrating how they reflect deeper vulnerabilities in democratic societies. Drawing on extensive research and firsthand reporting, Snyder exposes the threats to democracy and the rule of law. He urges readers to reaffirm core political virtues—equality, individuality, truth—and offers guidance for confronting the challenges facing the world today.

First publish date: 2018