Heather Cox Richardson, a historian of 19th-century America, gained popularity during Donald Trump’s first impeachment hearing when she began publishing essays summarizing the day’s political news on her Facebook page. Her straightforward analysis, free from the shrill hysteria of Twitter, resonated with readers and she soon began publishing her reports as a Substack newsletter called “Letters From an American.” Richardson’s new book, Democracy Awakening, draws on her scholarly background to argue that the Republican Party under Trump is committed to a radical vision of economic, racial, and social hierarchy that has deep roots in American history. She contends that while American history is tainted by racism, slavery, and conquest, the country’s fundamental principles have tended toward egalitarianism, often championed by marginalized groups.
Democracy Awakening is organized into three parts. The first explores the history of the contemporary right, tracing its origins to the mobilization against the New Deal. Richardson argues that the Republican Party today is a radical force that seeks to reject the Declaration of Independence and replace it with a hierarchical vision. The second section covers the events of the Trump years, highlighting a broader pattern throughout American history of power grabs by the right. The final section explores the founding era, emphasizing the contested nature of American democracy and the role of marginalized groups in advancing its central ideas.
Richardson’s account aligns with the ongoing debates over how to teach and commemorate American history. She argues that while the country has a sordid history, it also embodies the best hopes and aspirations of a free humanity. She wants to change the heroes of American history, highlighting the contributions of marginalized groups who have advanced its central ideals. However, some critics argue that Richardson’s account overlooks the radical activists and divisions within American politics, and that a transformative response is needed to address the roots of Trumpism.
Overall, Richardson’s book offers a nuanced perspective on American history, asserting that while the country’s past is tainted by racism and inequality, its fundamental principles have tended toward egalitarianism. She seeks to bring together the conflicting narratives of American history and change the heroes of the story to include marginalized groups who have fought for democracy and equality. However, some critics argue that her account overlooks the radical activists and divisions within American politics.
