Topic

Resistance

German political opposition to the Nazis was weak at best. The Social Democrats over-relied on legal norms and faith in checks and balances, and the Communists failed to organize any significant opposition. Communists refused to work with others on the left. The result was complete capitulation. By the time the Nazis persecuted political leaders among their conservative allies, it was too late. Today’s lack of urgency echoes these past failures. While some groups quietly prepare for a second Trump administration, history shows that resistance must be robust and organized. Many are apathetic, sick of politics, or tired of fighting. Some on the American left risk electing Trump due to ideological purity tests or single issue votes, ironically yielding power to those who would make things worse. To safeguard democracy, citizens and institutions must mobilize collectively, reject complacency, and actively challenge attempts to undermine democratic norms.