· jacob heilbrunn · 6 min read
Jacob Heilbrunn's "America Last": A Review
Jacob Heilbrunn's "America Last" explores the right's century-long romance with foreign dictators.
Jacob Heilbrunn's "America Last" is a provocative and timely book that examines the right's century-long romance with foreign dictators. Heilbrunn argues that this relationship has had a profound impact on American foreign policy, and that it has led to a decline in America's standing in the world.
Overview
PROS
- Provides a comprehensive analysis of the long-standing relationship between the American right and foreign dictators.
- Unveils the historical context and motivations behind this alliance.
- Argues that this relationship has had a significant impact on American foreign policy.
CONS
- May be too detailed for some readers.
- Some may disagree with the author's interpretations of historical events.
In his meticulously researched book, 'America Last: The Right's Century-Long Romance with Foreign Dictators,' Jacob Heilbrunn delves into the hidden history of the American right-wing's fascination with authoritarian regimes. Heilbrunn argues that this relationship has been a consistent thread running through American conservatism, from the early 20th century to the present day. He traces the roots of this alliance back to the rise of anti-communist sentiment during the Cold War, when many on the right saw dictators as bulwarks against the spread of communism.
Heilbrunn's book is a timely and important contribution to understanding the current political climate. It provides a much-needed historical perspective on the rise of authoritarianism around the world, and its implications for American democracy. Heilbrunn's work is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of American foreign policy, the rise of the right-wing, and the future of democracy.
PROS
- Provides a comprehensive history of the rise of neoconservatism in American politics.
- Offers an in-depth analysis of the key figures and organizations involved in the neoconservative movement.
- Examines the impact of neoconservative ideology on US foreign policy, including the Iraq War.
CONS
- May be too detailed for some readers.
- Can be critical of neoconservatism at times.
In his acclaimed book "They Knew They Were Right: The Rise of the Neocons," Jacob Heilbrunn delivers a meticulously researched and thought-provoking account of the ascendancy of neoconservatism in American politics. Heilbrunn traces the movement's origins from the 1970s to the present day, shedding light on the key figures, organizations, and ideas that have shaped its development.
Heilbrunn's analysis is both nuanced and incisive. He explores the complex interplay of domestic and international factors that have contributed to the rise of neoconservatism, and he offers a critical assessment of the movement's impact on US foreign policy. The book provides valuable insights into the motivations and beliefs of neoconservatives, and it raises important questions about the future of American foreign policy. Whether you agree or disagree with Heilbrunn's conclusions, "They Knew They Were Right" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the forces that have shaped American foreign policy in recent decades.
PROS
- Draws upon meticulous research and interviews to provide a comprehensive account of the decline of Roe v. Wade.
- Presents a nuanced analysis of the political and social forces that have shaped the reproductive rights landscape.
CONS
- Can be somewhat repetitive in its coverage of certain events.
- Some readers may find the detailed legal analysis overwhelming.
In “The Fall of Roe,” Jacob Heilbrunn delivers a meticulously researched and engagingly written account of the steady erosion of reproductive rights in the United States. Through extensive interviews and a close examination of historical documents, he traces the rise of the anti-abortion movement, the appointment of conservative judges to the Supreme Court, and the incremental chipping away at Roe v. Wade that culminated in its eventual overturn.
Heilbrunn’s analysis is both comprehensive and nuanced, providing a deep understanding of the complex interplay between law, politics, and social movements. He deftly weaves together personal stories, legal arguments, and political maneuvers to create a vivid narrative that sheds light on the forces that have shaped the reproductive rights landscape in America.
Heilbrunn's book begins by examining the early days of the Cold War, when the United States allied itself with a number of right-wing dictators in order to contain the spread of communism. He shows how these alliances led to a number of disastrous consequences, including the Vietnam War and the Iran-Contra affair. Heilbrunn argues that the right's embrace of foreign dictators is based on a deep-seated belief in American exceptionalism. He shows how this belief has led to a willingness to tolerate human rights abuses and to ignore the rule of law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main argument of Jacob Heilbrunn's "America Last"?
Heilbrunn argues that the right's century-long romance with foreign dictators has had a profound impact on American foreign policy, and that it has led to a decline in America's standing in the world.
What are some of the disastrous consequences of the United States' alliances with right-wing dictators?
Heilbrunn cites the Vietnam War and the Iran-Contra affair as two examples of the disastrous consequences of the United States' alliances with right-wing dictators.
What is the basis for the right's embrace of foreign dictators?
Heilbrunn argues that the right's embrace of foreign dictators is based on a deep-seated belief in American exceptionalism.
How has American exceptionalism influenced the United States' foreign policy?
Heilbrunn shows how American exceptionalism has led to a willingness to tolerate human rights abuses and to ignore the rule of law.
What is the overall message of Jacob Heilbrunn's "America Last"?
Heilbrunn's book is a warning about the dangers of the right's romance with foreign dictators. He argues that this relationship has undermined American democracy and damaged America's standing in the world.
