20 Lessons from the 20th Century

Long story short, “On Tyranny” covers the lessons on freedom that we have learned from the 20th century. During this time period, humanity had experienced many wars, political strifes and struggles of oppression and the one thing they all share in common was that it was a fight for each person or nation’s freedom.

It’s often mentioned while history does not repeat itself, there are patterns to make it rhyme. Throughout the 20th century, the world has witnessed how societies evolve, governments crumble and how humans still have the tendency to fight each other over conflicting values. 

Despite the mistakes that were made, the value of history is that we can look back and learn from those stains in our past (link to Lessons of History post). 

For those who don’t know

Snyder had documented the acts of tyranny in the 20th century, and outlined 20 lessons that can be learned from this period in time. These 20 lessons cover the basis of how we can strive and preserve an ethical system of governance based on freedom and democracy.

While it was intended to be an observation for governmental systems, some of these lessons can be applied in our everyday life whether it is in business, social relationships or pursuing one’s purpose.

As previously stated, quitting is not just giving up when it’s hard but giving up when it’s the right move. 

Traditionally, quitting was viewed as a negative action because there was a stigma where only people that don’t achieve success or are viewed as losers are the ones who tend to quit. 

Lesson #1: Do not obey in advance

It is paramount to understand that we should understand where our true principles and values lie before acting out solely because we are told to do so.

Lesson #2: Defend Institutions

Institutions are critical to the success and prosperity of any civilization. Protect institutions that align with your sincere care and genuine interest.

Institutions can include systems such as the courts, labour unions and government.

Lesson #3: Beware the one-party state

Government systems with multiple parties should represent the country’s best interests.

While at the same time we must ensure that each citizen has equal voting power to select a party that aligns with their decision making on behalf of the nation.

Lesson #4: Take responsibility for the face of the world

Make efforts to incorporate symbols that encourage inclusivity for fellow citizens.

These symbols can represent the values and principles of a nation.

Lesson #5: Remember Professional ethics

When in doubt, let their principles and ethics guide your moral actions. These ethics should involve being a good, law-abiding citizen.

Lesson #6: Be wary of paramilitaries

Certain systems can change over time due to violence or enforcement. Be careful and observe how acts of violence can signal a change of a nation’s system.

Lesson #7: Be Reflective if you must be armed

When decisions are being made, understand that it is important to stand by your principles, instead of simply conforming to the majority.

Lesson #8: Stand Out

Similar to Lesson #7, it is a lot easier to conform and follow along instead of standing for your own decisions, even if it may be difficult. 

It may feel uneasy at first, but someone must stand and set an example for certain values.

Lesson #9: Be kind to our language

Surround yourself and absorb information that stimulates the way you think. 

Focus on learning from different perspectives through publications, books, and informational products as opposed to relying on popular media outlets.

Lesson #10: Believe in Truth

Learn to separate between what is real and what you want to hear. Objectivity in the truth is something worth defending.

Lesson #11: Investigate

Let our curiosities guide us towards what we define as truth within ourselves and the world around us. 

Learning from multiple perspectives would allow us to better understand ourselves and what we would like to contribute to the world. 

Lesson #12: Make eye contact and small talk

Respect one another and form strong bonds within a community. 

Societies are meant to form communities of groups/ individuals that help one another.

Lesson #13: Practice corporeal politics

Form bonds with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds to gain perspective and different opinions to form solutions to current problems. 

Lesson #14: Establish a private life

We are free to express ourselves in any way that we can, but it is important to proceed with caution in our form of expression.

Potential adversaries with political interest are always looking for ways to exercise their control onto others by using their vulnerabilities against them.

Lesson #15: Contribute to good causes

Support organizations that involve noble and positive movements. Be authentic in which cause or movement you are showing support for.

Lesson #16: Learn from peers in other countries

Build relationships with not only members in our domestic environments, but across the globe as well.

Making friends in countries across the globe is always beneficial and important. 

Lesson #17: Listen for dangerous words

Understand the difference between the smokescreen of danger and what true danger actually is.

Lesson #18: Be calm when the unthinkable arrives

Remain steadfast and calm when situations spiral out of control. This is to ensure that you are acting rationally instead of emotionally.

Lesson #19: Be an Example for Others

Set an example of what other citizens or groups should aspire to become.

Lesson #20: Be as courageous as you can

Be bold and brave when it comes to your beliefs and higher purpose. 

What can WE do from here?

While these lessons from the 20th century were drawn from the political landscape of the world, these lessons can be applied to our lives in the 21st century and beyond.

The importance of remaining true to ourselves, building positive relationships with others and standing for what is right will ALWAYS stand the test of time.

If you would like to give Timothy Synder’s On Tyranny, 20 Lessons from the 20th Century a read while supporting the blog feel free to click below:

Thank you for visiting our page and if this sparked any more curiosities feel free to read away and check out the following book in the Little Books Big Meaning Series!