Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Richardson discusses how false histories have shaped ideologies, using examples like the cowboy myth and the “Make America Great Again” slogan. Do you feel historical myths or rhetoric have influenced your understanding of American history or current events? How did your perspective change after reading this? 

2. The book emphasizes the role of marginalized groups in defending democracy. Can you think of examples from your community, history, or personal experience where grassroots efforts or marginalized voices brought about meaningful change? 

3. In her discussion of defending democracy, Richardson emphasizes coalition-building among marginalized groups. Have you experienced or witnessed effective coalition-building in your personal or professional life? What lessons could you draw from those experiences for broader societal change? 

4. Richardson challenges the belief that Americans are inherently immune to authoritarianism. Did this challenge any assumptions you previously held? How do you now view the balance between democracy and authoritarianism in America?

5. Richardson concludes by asserting that the future of democracy depends on individual and collective action. After reading this book, do you feel inspired to engage more actively in your community or political system? If so, how might you start? If not, why?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. Richardson traces how the evolution of democracy in America has been shaped by systemic exclusions based on race, gender, and economic status. How do you see these historical exclusions manifesting in contemporary political and social structures, whether in America or elsewhere? Are there current movements or policies that seem to address these inequalities effectively? 

2. Popular history, as Richardson demonstrates, makes historical knowledge accessible to a broader audience but has also drawn criticism from certain groups. How do think increased access to historical knowledge impacts society’s ability to engage in democratic processes? 

3. Richardson highlights how authoritarianism thrives on hierarchies and scapegoating. What similar patterns in recent events or political rhetoric have you noticed, both in the US and elsewhere? What other factors do you see as facilitating authoritarianism?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Richardson uses rhetorical questions to engage readers and frame her arguments. What is the effect of this on the work’s tone? How does it support its themes? 

2. Richardson explains the historical roots of terms like “conservatism” to frame their evolution over time. How does this contextualization serve the work’s overall goals?

3. Richardson contrasts the rhetoric of authoritarianism with the ideals of democracy, such as community and coalition-building. How does she use language to evoke the stakes of this conflict? 

4. Richardson identifies recurring themes of exclusion and hierarchy in American democracy. How does her thematic analysis contribute to the book’s overall argument?