“It Can’t Happen Here” 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 via self-coup and imposes totalitarian rule with the help of a ruthless paramilitary force. The novel’s plot centers on journalist Doremus Jessup‘s opposition to the new regime and his subsequent struggle against it as part of a liberal rebellion.”
