Ruth Ben-Ghiat
Professor of History and Italian Studies, NYU

Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a virtual guest at Crosscut Festival 2022. She is a Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University and writes frequently for CNN and other media outlets on threats to democracy around the world. Her latest book, Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present, examines how illiberal leaders use corruption, violence, propaganda and machismo to stay in power, and how resistance to them has unfolded.
When: 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 4.
Where: This is a free virtual event. RSVP now.
Find more details about this event below.
Scheduled Appearances
Are Authoritarians Winning?
Russian President Vladimir Putin rattled the Western world with his shocking invasion of Ukraine, and authoritarianism appears on the rise around the globe. Meanwhile, threats to democracy feel just as real right here at home. WATCH NOW




Featured Books
Crosscut Festival supports local booksellers. Titles below can be purchased at Elliott Bay Book Company.
Stay Connected
Be the first to find out about new speakers and sessions, and special events.
What is the Crosscut Festival?
The Crosscut Festival is a celebration of big ideas and bold thinking - a gathering of a community of the curious. Connect with noteworthy political leaders and newsmakers along with authors, journalists and experts focused on the most important issues of our time. The Crosscut Festival features firesides interviews, panels and special events that explore forward-thinking in Politics, Social Justice, the Environment, History, Innovation and more.
50+
speakers
25+
events
2000+
attendees
Endless
ideas
Crosscut Festival VIP experience

Attend our exclusive fundraising kickoff event to mingle with select speakers while supporting public media and local journalism.