Ep 2. Crush Your Rivals

In episode 2 of How to Become a Tyrant, titled "Crush Your Rivals," the focus is on the importance of eliminating threats to maintain power. The episode delves into the ruthless tactics employed by historical tyrants to get rid of their rivals, enemies, and anyone who posed a threat to their authority.

The episode starts off by exploring the story of Saddam Hussein, who rose to power in Iraq by eliminating anyone who stood in his way. He was known for his brutal methods of torture and execution, and his utter disregard for human rights. Saddam's regime was marked by an atmosphere of fear, where anyone who dared to speak out against him would be punished severely.

Next, the episode looks at the life of Julius Caesar, one of the most famous tyrants of ancient Rome. Julius Caesar came to power by crushing his rivals and seizing control of the government. He employed a mix of propaganda, bribery, and violence to maintain his hold on power. The episode also examines the role of the Roman Senate in enabling Caesar's rise to power.

The episode then explores the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, who became the Emperor of France in the early 19th century. Napoleon was a military genius who had a vision of creating a unified Europe under French rule. He achieved this goal by conquering most of Europe through a series of wars. However, his ambition ultimately led to his downfall, as he was exiled to the island of Saint Helena after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo.

Throughout the episode, the narrator draws parallels between these historical figures and modern-day tyrants. The episode examines the tactics used by authoritarian leaders such as Vladimir Putin of Russia, Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, and Kim Jong-Un of North Korea, who have all used violence and repression to maintain their power.

The episode also delves into the psychology of tyrants, exploring the reasons why they feel the need to crush their rivals. It examines the role of fear and insecurity in driving their actions, and the way in which they often become obsessed with maintaining their power at all costs. The episode also explores the impact that tyrants have on their societies, and the lasting damage they can do to institutions and democratic norms.

In conclusion, How to Become a Tyrant season 1 episode 2 is a thought-provoking exploration of the strategies that tyrants have used throughout history to maintain their power. It is a cautionary tale that serves as a reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism, and the importance of protecting democratic institutions and values.