It Cant Happen Here

It Cant Happen Here is a semi-satirical 1935 political novel by American author Sinclair Lewis. The novel was published during the heyday of fascism in Europe, which was reported on by Dorothy Thompson, Lewis wife. The novel describes the rise of Berzelius Buzz Windrip, a demagogue who is elected President of the United States, after fomenting fear and promising drastic economic and social reforms while promoting a return to patriotism and traditional values. After his election, Windrip takes complete control of the government and imposes totalitarian rule with the help of a ruthless paramilitary force, in the manner of European fascists such as Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini. The novels plot centers on journalist Doremus Jessups opposition to the new regime and his subsequent struggle against it as part of a liberal rebellion. It Cant Happen Here remains uniquely important, a shockingly prescient novel thats as fresh and contemporary as todays news.