What are the similarities and differences between events that occurred in Paris, France on February 6th, 1934, and in Washington, DC on January 6th, 2021? What lessons do Levitsky and Ziblatt believe Americans should derive from the comparison? Do you agree with these lessons? Why or why not?

What is the Reconstruction era and why is it so important in US history? What are the parallels between this period and contemporary US politics and society?

The authors assert that America has previously come close to establishing a multiracial democracy, only to have such a step thwarted by reactionary forces. How do these historical reactions compare to the present-day reactions of American conservatives? How could a multiracial democracy be achieved once and for all?