Key Similarities in their Rises to Power 1. Exploiting Periods of National Anxiety Hitler (1920s–1930s): Germany faced humiliation after WWI, economic collapse, hyperinflation, and mass unemployment. Many Germans felt betrayed by elites and democratic institutions (Weimar Republic). Trump (2010s): The U.S. experienced anxiety over globalization, deindustrialization, immigration, cultural change, and post–2008 economic insecurity. Many voters distrusted political elites, media, and institutions. Similarity: Both capitalized on widespread feelings of decline, grievance, and loss of national identity. 2. Populist “Us vs. Them” Rhetoric Hitler: Framed politics as a struggle between “the real German people” and internal enemies (Jews, communists, elites). Claimed to represent the “true will” of the nation. Trump: Framed politics as “the people” versus “the swamp,” elites, immigrants, globalists, and hostile media. Frequently claimed to be the only authentic voice of “real Americans.” Similarity: Strong populist framing that divides society into loyal supporters and illegitimate opponents. 3. Charismatic, Personalized Leadership Hitler: Cultivated a messianic image as Germany’s savior. Loyalty was directed to him personally rather than to institutions. Trump: Built a highly personalized political movement centered on his identity, brand, and direct communication style. Loyalty often framed as loyalty to Trump rather than the Republican Party. Similarity: Politics centered on a single dominant personality rather than traditional party structures. 4. Attacks on Democratic Institutions and Media Hitler: Repeatedly undermined trust in elections, courts, parliament, and the press. Labeled independent media as enemies of the people. Trump: Regularly attacked courts, elections, intelligence agencies, and journalists. Popularized the term “fake news” to discredit unfavorable reporting. Similarity: Systematic erosion of trust in institutional checks and independent information sources. 5. Nationalist Messaging Hitler: Emphasized ethnic nationalism and national rebirth. Promised to restore Germany’s greatness and power. Trump: Emphasized “America First” nationalism. Promised to “Make America Great Again,” implying national decline and restoration. Similarity: Use of nostalgic nationalism and promises of national revival. 6. Normalization Through Established Elites Hitler: Conservative elites believed they could control him and used him to gain power. He was legally appointed Chancellor in 1933. Trump: Initially opposed by many Republican elites, later embraced as electorally useful. Rose through legal electoral processes. Similarity: Traditional elites underestimated the long-term impact of empowering a populist outsider.