ERASING HISTORY should occupy the same shelf space as books such as Ibram X. Kendi’s How to Be an Antiracist and Ijeoma Oluo’s So You Want to Talk About Race. In terms of being an introduction to how fascism works and where we can see examples of fascism in our history and current events, it’s successful. I did wish, however, that it could have committed to a more discerning definition of fascism, as well as focused more on rising fascism in the US.

Jason Stanley is a professor specializing in philosophy of education, so he has the depth and breadth to write about this subject. In ERASING HISTORY, Stanley first gives us an overview of the reasons why fascists are threatened by a democratic, pluralistic view of history: because understanding that there are multiple perspectives on history is tantamount to admitting that different perspectives, and therefore different people, are valuable, and fascism is all about controlling the narrative for the powerful to maintain their influence. Things that made me think from reading ERASING HISTORY include:

- Settler colonialism using the erasure of indigenous history and culture to justify implanting their superior culture on an “unclaimed” land;

- “Civilization savagism” as the act of rendering the local population deserving of being colonized or ruled by the colonizing nation’s universally superior cultural norms;

- The need for “supremacist nationalism” to justify their manifest superiority by portraying themselves in only a good light, e.g. the way in which US conservatives have tried to rewrite the US’ history with slavery and the actions of the Ku Klux Klan as being beneficial to Black people;

- The five themes of fascist education being national greatness, national purity, national innocence, strict gender roles, and vilification of the left;

- The susceptibility of populations educated with myths of national supremacy to the Great Replacement Theory (or the fear that their position of influence in their society will be replaced by invading foreign stains), because their nationhood is predicated on the belief that they are superior to others.

Stanley pulls on historical examples from Nazi Germany, India, Hungary, Russia, and more to support his arguments. All of this is fascinating, but I found myself wishing he would stick more to analyzing historical and current US events, as ERASING HISTORY inadvertently gives off the impression that “Well, the US may be bad in some ways, but at least we’re not Nazi Germany!” which is not really the message that we need right now.

Indeed, one could argue that Stanley is so quick to assign the label of fascism to contemporary societies that it starts to lose its impact. In taking a broader view in his analysis, the book could end up confusing or misleading readers into thinking that fascism is less a threat to the US than it really is, because he switches from talking about non-US examples of fascism to US examples in a way that sort of obfuscates the seriousness of the rise of fascism in the US.

Finally, I wasn’t that impressed that, for someone so quick to throw out the labels of fascism and genocide (he calls what Russia is doing to Ukrainians a genocide, or at least a “cultural genocide”), Stanley delicately yet noticeably avoids labeling Israel’s actions against Palestinians as a genocide. Every time Israel is brought up as an example, the book is careful to preface it by saying that Israel acted in response to a “horrific” terrorist attack by Hamas, whereas Israel’s actions are only “arguably genocidal”. Interesting because on his social media he DOES call a genocide a genocide, but limitations were placed on this book? Shrug.

As far as literature on fascism is concerned, I’m not sure if ERASING HISTORY breaks any new ground, but it is a good summary of the concept for those who are, perhaps, just beginning to un-learn the things that we had been taught. A more specific focus on the US and more actionable measures that we can take against fascism would have made it a stronger read for me.

Note: I received a free unpublished proof of this book, for a limited time, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.

This book goes beyond being about any sort of specific historical period, and is more of a meta-read going into the practice of history itself and how fascism manipulates it for political gain. At only 256 pages, this book is not very long or completely comprehensive, but it provides a wonderful entry point to readers who want to understand how the current situation with right-wing extremists in US education is tied to larger narratives of fascism and authoritarianism.

One of my favorite aspects of the book is that Stanley cites a lot of real-world examples of past fascist regimes and how they have utilized the practice of history to achieve their goals. When people try to explain political methods or ideologies, readers and listeners sometimes have a hard time understanding without examples, and may try to claim that these things have never occurred or aren’t problems. This book manages to reach an audience that isn’t super knowledgeable on the subject by including a lot of detailed real-world examples interwoven with more conceptual explanations. These examples also taught me about a lot of places, people, and events I didn’t know about before.

In a world where political movements often appear absurd, this book helps to explain the reasoning behind the absurdity. Stanley reveals that a lot of the talking points of the alt-right are, in fact, intentionally malicious and not just the result of their proponents “not knowing better” or lacking critical thinking skills.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this one. It is short enough that I don’t really see a need to “pick it apart” any further given that the book’s organization by theme speaks for itself and all of the topics flow into each other naturally enough for readers to keep up. I am also aware that Stanley has written some other books, which I plan to seek out and read at some point because his writing style is very approachable while also communicating multiple levels of nuance, as is appropriate for the subject matter at hand.

Great book...if you are into liberal propaganda! This book is full of nonsensical claims of the so called right wing fascists and is a play by play of everything the left is doing. Full of false claims and twisting of the facts. Most of what the author is saying is exactly what the liberal progressives are doing. I am sure liberals will eat this up.

Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future
Posted on September 7, 2024 by Jack

The book is Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future by Jason Stanley. The book is scheduled to be published on September 10.

I know that certain factions have insisted on a revised of history. It never made any sense to me. But that is probably because I am an American. The government could insist that something was true and maybe even force the education department to go along with it.

But in a democracy there would always be a those who voiced another opinion. And as Americans we would be free to decide who to believe. But what if we were not be free to disagree with the government version of history. There was only 1 acceptable version. And that was designed to make us believe what the government wants us to believe.

In Erasing History, Jason Stanley discusses how and why rewriting history is part of authoritarian and fascist governments method to gain power and eliminate democracy. This has happened in many counties around the world. So now I understand why they want us to believe their version of history and how they use it to enhance there power over the people,

It is happening in the United States and must be stopped if we would like to remain a free country.

Several years ago I reviewed a book called The Death of Democracy: Hitler’s Rise to Power and the Downfall of the Weimar Republic by Benjamin Carter Hett.

I was stuck in particular by the statement:

“among the Weimar Republic’s more fatal defects was that millions of its people deeply believed things that were verifiably untrue.”

This is true in America today. I closed my review by asking:

Is history repeating itself? It is not exactly the same but some things seem pretty close.

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This book is wonderful, concise, and MANY people are going to be opposed to it. Give it to your friends, family, and nemeses.

I love a great researched book with lots of citations! This book delivers! Bonus, a lot of hightlighted content to review later (likley in in debates). Yale professor of philosophy Jason Stanley, exposes the attack from facisits we are under here in the United States thorugh the education system. (check out what he writes about the “Trad Wife” movement). A fast amazing read!

Thank you NetGalley and Atria/One Signal Publishers. #ErasingHistory #NetGalley

As a librarian, I hear a lot about book banning from the news, but I haven't seen much about the theory and history behind it besides short references to Nazis. It was great to get a more comprehensive look at the history of hiding history around the world, especially with more recent international examples.

I have had Jason Stanley's other book, How Fascism Works, on my TBR for years so when I saw this one was available, I jumped on the opportunity. Genuinely a fantastic decision!

This book is a must read for anyone wanting to better understand how and why erasing or rewriting history is part of authoritarian and fascist governments and groups. Stanley's explanations are concise, precise and accessible even without much prior knowledge or understanding of fascism (or any other concept that might intimidate you).

I highly recommend reading one chapter at a time and then taking a breather to fully reflect on and absorb what you've just read. Not because it is complicated, but rather because it is somewhat mind blowing when you consider how each aspect links with the others to build this manipulation of "history".

I will now be pushing all his other books to the top of my list.


Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books | Atria/One Signal Publishers for the opportunity to read this book,

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

In “Erasing History,” Jason Stanley masterfully dissects the far-right’s insidious assault on education, revealing how rewriting the past becomes a weapon to control our collective future. With urgency and precision, Stanley navigates the treacherous terrain where authoritarianism thrives—our schools and universities.

Authoritarians target our common understanding of history, aiming to dismantle the bedrock of democracy. By erasing historical context, they leave us unmoored and susceptible to their divisive narratives.

Democracies entrust educational institutions with preserving a memory of positive change—generated by protests, social movements, and rebellions. The authoritarian right seeks to erase this history, stifling critical inquiry and progress.

Stanley exposes the tactics and funders behind this assault. From discouraging critical examination to threatening violence, authoritarians weaponize education to rewrite narratives in their favor.

“Erasing History” is a battle cry for our times. Stanley’s clarity and urgency resonate as he reminds us that the worst fascist movements began in schools—a sobering truth. By understanding the fascist playbook, we can safeguard our shared history true history and help protect democracy.

For those who believe in the power of knowledge and the resilience of truth, “Erasing History” is essential reading. Let’s defend our past to shape a more just and informed future.

Sometimes the fight to preserve the truth is the fight for our very existence. 📚🔍

I read this after reading "how democracies die" I felt like they paired well together. I have recommended this book to several other.

I just finished Erasing History by Jason Stanley, and it’s a thought-provoking read. The book delves into the rising threat of global fascism and how democracy, particularly in the U.S., is under attack. Stanley argues that to fight this, we need to learn from history.

He explains how authoritarians target education to erase critical parts of our shared past, dividing and controlling people. Stanley provides numerous global examples, from China and Russia to historical references like Hitler and McCarthy, showing how these tactics undermine democracy.

I initially wondered, "What can he say that I don’t know already?" but I quickly realized there was a lot to learn. Concepts like Supremacist Nationalism were new to me and quite disturbing. Stanley also highlighted current issues, like Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán's speech in Dallas and attempts to erase Native American and Black history.

The book made me question how we can protect public education and free speech in universities. Stanley stresses the importance of liberal arts colleges, which don’t exist in authoritarian countries, as vital for preserving democracy.

Having read How Fascism Works, I’ve seen the relevance of Stanley’s work. Erasing History is specific and urgent, showing that education is a key battleground against fascism. Critical thinking and a shared understanding of history are essential for a healthy democracy.

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Thoroughly researched, Jason Stanley presents a book with the possibility of an authoritarian regime in America. He shows how omitting critical parts of shared history in schools and universities is a strategy developed by leaders in the world who have been able to manipulate and control societies.

I thought: “What can he say that I don’t know already?” A lot. He educates the reader with what has happened in the world with countries such as China, India and Russia that are controlled by authoritarians. Some examples were noted with Hitler’s movement during WWII, McCarthy era in America and Putin’s war in Ukraine.

Stanley provided steps that authoritarian governments have used to change democracies with examples from Project 2025. There were classifications that were new to me such as Supremacist Nationalism. It was distressing to read: “America’s greatness stems from both its whiteness and its Christianity” knowing that my ancestor, Thomas Harris, nearly escaped after refusing to join the religious group at a place called the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1600s. I learned more about Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán recent speech at a Dallas, TX political event attacking the idea of a mixed race. This book revealed historical accounts of the Native Americans and Black slavery that is an important part of our past.

The truth can be overwhelmingly depressing. This book entails a lot of information that can hit hard with reality that made me pause with my own questions. How do we fight back for public education and free-speech at universities? The author said American style liberal arts colleges do not exist in authoritarian countries.

Stanley was raised with ancestors who suffered greatly from Hitler and Stalin. He has spent years studying the effects of an authoritarian government and has presented a solid analysis of his findings in this book. He provides evidence of what’s happening in America and helps the reader to understand how we are moving in a direction of Christianity in southern schools and erasing parts of history that can later be manipulated.

The author has continued the work of his late father, Manfred Stanley, a Syracuse professor who taught about the meanings of democratic citizenship. Our world is changing with Artificial Intelligence and the massive amounts of internet news along with the bias news from the media. It’s important that we keep informed with the truthful past and present.

My thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of September 10, 2024.

Sadly relevant and timely as the world flirts with strongman dictatorships around the world. Much like Ann Applebaum's "Autocracy Inc.", Stanley does a fantastic job examining the 'new face' of fascism, encouraging readers to look beyond the strongman and to more closely examine the institutions and systems that act as the engine of the regime. Stanly also focuses on the distorted world of 'alternative facts' that haunt modern politics and reflect the nightmare visions of Orwell and Kafka. The work is a clarion call in defense of history and education systems. An ignorant polity is doomed to follow the path of least resistance, and fascism has, and continues, to offer this simple path to self-destruction

You can also see this review, along with others I have written, at my blog, <a href="https://www.mrbooksbookreviews.com">Mr. Book's Book Reviews.</a>

Thank you Atria Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Mr. Book just finished Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite The Past To Control The Future, by Jason Stanley.

The author primarily studies international politics and countries like Russia, India, Turkey, Israel and Hungary where fascist or authoritarian cultures appear. Unfortunately, that is also happening in the United States, which is the central focus of this book.

The focus on the book is how fascists use education as a political tool. As Putin pointed out, “Wars are won by teachers.”

Stanley pointed out the parallel between the Red Scare and McCarthyism to today’s efforts by the right-wing to go after liberal educators at every level from elementary school to college.

Control of education goes beyond merely deciding curriculum. Education can be used to achieve political objections as well. For example, in “Russia and North Korea today, we can see how education systems help to cultivate an unhealthy reverence for leaders, placing them above the rule of law. In other countries, such as India, the education system is used to place Hindu Indians over Muslim Indians. In each case, education functions to undermine the basis of democratic equal citizenship.”

The author does an excellent job discussing “supremacist nationalism”, which doesn’t acknowledge the country has ever done anything wrong. He uses how the education system has historically been whitewashing slavery and our treatment of minorities to make his case. And he accurately condemns “American exceptionalism” as whitewashing the role of slavery and the genocide of indigenous people.

This is the third book I have by Stanley. I already gave How Fascism Works: The Politics Of Us And Them an A in 2018. While I have a copy of How Propaganda Works, I have not yet read it.

This is a short book. There was a time when I would have held that against it and wouldn’t consider giving it either an A or A+. I am glad that I abandoned that stubbornness about a year and a half or so ago. Despite its lack of length, the author made his case so forcefully that he earns an A+ on this one. After finishing this book, I immediately put in a preorder for the audio version, which will come out at the same time as the printed copy on September 10.

Goodreads and NetGalley require grades on a 1-5 star system. In my personal conversion system, an A equates to 5 stars. (A or A+: 5 stars, B+: 4 stars, B: 3 stars, C: 2 stars, D or F: 1 star).

This book will be released on September 10, 2024. As requested by the publisher, I will hold off posting the review at NetGalley, Goodreads and my blog, Mr. Book’s Book Reviews until a week prior to publication.

Mr. Book originally finished reading this on July 8, 2024.

Go to Mr. Book’s Book Reviews homepage

Jason Stanley is the kind of writer who’s talent and erudition is undeniable, but boy do you wish his books weren’t so timely or increasingly relevant.

I read his book “How Fascism Works” back in 2018 and unfortunately have had little cause since then to think fascism won’t be a major factor in my life. Whereas his previous book was a bit broad and general for my taste, this title was quite the opposite, being incredibly specific and drawing on a number of current global examples. Unfortunately there is no dearth of examples, since fascism is having something of a moment right now, from Putin’s Russia, to Modi’s India, and of course the United States' own increasingly bold flirtation with authoritarianism.
While this global rise is threatening and overwhelming, the role education and history in particular plays in this struggle for nations can easily be overlooked, that’s where this book comes in. Stanley argues in convincing fashion that education is one of the most critical battlegrounds for any burgeoning fascist regime. The reason for this, the author shows throughout the pages of this book, is that things like critical thinking and a shared understanding of history and culture are anathema to the way fascist governments operate and control people, through manipulation, misinformation, and fear of the ”Other”.

While there aren’t any easy answers here, the author does a good job of showing what is really at stake, highlighting the close bond between education and a functioning democracy. If nothing else, this book should serve as a wake up call, lest America become as authoritarian as Putin’s Russia. The fight for our classrooms today is just a prelude to the fight for our voting booths and indeed our country tomorrow.