DOMESTIC EXTREMISM

Violence and intimidation have been parts of American political life for generations, but today these incidents are increasing.

Citing research showing that this rise has been perpetrated mostly by right-wing extremists, Marcovitz describes the threat, the increase in groups of varying ideologies, the ways they attract followers, and countermeasures. An opening timeline begins at the end of the Civil War with the Ku Klux Klan, mentions the 20th-century bombings of an African American church in Alabama and a federal building in Oklahoma, and homes in on events of the first two decades of the 21st century. The author begins his survey with a description of the Wolverine Watchmen who hoped to overturn Michigan’s Covid-19 guidelines by kidnapping Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. He then documents a variety of incidents and mentions extreme views among the police and members of the armed forces as well as eco-terrorists. To explain the rise of extremist groups, he offers further examples, calling out former President Donald Trump’s role in encouraging right-wing groups. Marcovitz also points to the role played by social media, again with examples from around the country. He presents research into why people are attracted to these beliefs and actions. A final chapter discusses government anti-extremist efforts and First Amendment rights. Quotations and photographs are found throughout this useful survey for high school students.

A timely overview of a pressing issue.