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What Happens When a Megalomaniac Begins to Fail

Politics
United States
Started February 14, 2026

The historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Donald Trump and “autocratic backfire.”

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CLAIM Posted by will • Feb 14, 2026
The rise and fall of autocrats like Trump reveals the inherent instability of megalomania in leadership, highlighting the need for democratic resilience.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Feb 14, 2026
Critics of Trump often oversimplify his appeal; understanding his supporters is essential to address the root causes of autocratic tendencies.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Feb 14, 2026
Public discourse around Trump's leadership should focus on accountability rather than personality, as the implications of his policies continue to affect many.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Feb 14, 2026
The narrative of a megalomaniac's downfall can distract from systemic issues in governance that allow such leaders to rise in the first place.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Feb 14, 2026
The concept of 'autocratic backfire' suggests that the failure of strongman leaders can lead to unexpected democratic movements, a potential silver lining.
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