Death of a Nation 2018

The cinematic journey commences with a poignant reflection on the demise of Adolf Hitler, setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of the roots of fascism. Director (Dinesh D’Souza) weaves a narrative that delves into his own personal history, from his formative years in India to his fascination with American ideals, as he ponders whether the country is threatened by contemporary movements such as AntiFa.

The film’s premise revolves around the notion that Democrats have historically targeted those who hold power, including Abraham Lincoln. His contested election led to a devastating civil war, and ultimately, an assassin’s bullet brought an end to his life. Now, (Dinesh D’Souza) posits that President Trump and his supporters are being similarly targeted by the Democratic party, asking whether the 45th president can salvage the nation from the perceived threats.

Through a series of insightful interviews with experts on fascism, anti-fascism, and the rise of Hitler and Mussolini, (Dinesh D’Souza) takes audiences on a journey to historic sites, replete with dramatic recreations. These scenes explore pivotal decisions, such as the declaration of revolution, the influence of Margaret Sanger’s eugenics movement on Nazi policies towards Jews, and the trials of Josef Mengele. Moreover, the film sheds light on the intentional revision of definitions surrounding fascism and the Nazi Party by progressive thinkers to portray them as right-wing ideologies.

With the aid of historians and experts in the field of fascism, the filmmakers suggest that AntiFa’s violent tactics mirror the very fascist principles they claim to reject. The movie probes deeper questions: Which party has historically perpetuated slavery? Which party is responsible for inventing white supremacy? Which party has praised fascist dictators and shaped their genocidal policies, only to be reciprocated with praise from those same leaders?

In a surprising turn, (Dinesh D’Souza) interviews Alt-Right icon Richard Spencer, who candidly acknowledges his socialist leanings, rather than identifying as a conservative Republican. As the film concludes, it poses the ultimate question: Is fascism now an institutionalized phenomenon on the right or the left?

As Death of a Nation delves into the dark legacy of American slavery, it shines a piercing light on the often-overlooked roles played by influential figures such as Woodrow Wilson, Van Buren, and FDR. The film’s narrative reveals that the roots of racism do not stem from the conservative right, but rather from the Democratic party and progressive movements on the left. Through a meticulous examination of historical events, the movie underscores which ideologies led to Abraham Lincoln’s election and which parties continued to fight for racial equality, going so far as to perpetuate the Ku Klux Klan and create Jim Crow laws to maintain segregation.

The filmmakers assert that President Trump, despite not embodying the same qualities as his esteemed predecessor Abraham Lincoln, is facing a similar level of resistance from the Left. This resistance began with his narrowly won election, followed by persistent attempts to oust him from office and a growing tide of violence and unrest aimed at thwarting his vision for American excellence.

The cinematic experience is punctuated by two poignant songs: O’America, performed by director Dinesh D’Souza’s wife Debbie at the film’s midpoint, and the Battle Hymn of the Republic, rendered by gospel singer Angela Primm and a choir in the closing moments. These stirring melodies add an emotional depth to the movie’s already powerful narrative, underscoring the significance of its themes.