Sinclair Lewis' fiery 1935 novel about a fascist coup is disturbingly prophetic
Many notable works of literature have a strong strain of prophecy about them. Few American classics illustrate that as well as Sinclair Lewis' 1935 bestseller, "It Can't Happen Here."
In writing this chronicle of a fascist coup in the United States, Lewis was disturbingly prescient about what it would take to jeopardize more than 100 years of democratic tradition in America. He foresaw not only that the threat would come from the right, but that it would come clothed in populist rhetoric and promises destined to be broken.
"It Can't Happen Here" is notable not only for the vividness of its plot and characterizations, but for its role in perhaps the most audacious government-sponsored artistic events in U.S. history. This was the premiere of a play based on the novel as a nationwide event, opening simultaneously in 21 theaters in 17 states on the night of Oct. 27, 1936.
Not so worse to have a real Strong Man, like Hitler or Mussolini ... and have ’em really run the country and make it efficient and prosperous again.
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https://finance.yahoo.com/news/column-sinclair-lewis-fiery-1935-190630200.html
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