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Speaker Profile

Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Professor of History and Italian Studies, NYU

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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.

Speaker Links

Scheduled Appearances

Culture & History

Are Authoritarians Winning?

Crosscut Festival 2022
Wed May 4, 2022 | 5:00pm

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

 

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Featuring: Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Steven Levitsky, David Corn, Rebekah Koffler

Featured Books

Crosscut Festival supports local booksellers. Titles below can be purchased at Elliott Bay Book Company.

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About the Festival

The Crosscut Ideas Festival is a celebration of big ideas and a gathering for bold thinkers. Newsmakers, changemakers and innovators come together to take a fresh look at the biggest issues of our time. Over one week, the Crosscut Ideas Festival hosts fireside conversations and panels, meetups, art installations, workshops, and interactive experiences.

headliners gala

Celebrate the best of PNW community and culture while supporting public media. Enjoy a night of entertainment with a culinary tour of the region curated by premier chefs and restaurateurs, Hear from The Daily host Michael Barbaro, and bid on a unique items in a PBS and Northwest-themed auction.