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Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom
From the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union to the ongoing struggle for human rights in the Middle East, Condoleezza Rice has served on the front lines of history. As a child, she was an eyewitness to a third awakening of freedom, when her hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, became the epicenter of the civil rights movement for black Americans.
In this book, Rice explains what these epochal events teach us about democracy. At a time when people around the world are wondering whether democracy is in decline, Rice shares insights from her experiences as a policymaker, scholar, and citizen, in order to put democracy's challenges into perspective.
When the United States was founded, it was the only attempt at self-government in the world. Today more than half of all countries qualify as democracies, and in the long run that number will continue to grow. Yet nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. Using America's long struggle as a template, Rice draws lessons for democracy around the world -- from Russia, Poland, and Ukraine, to Kenya, Colombia, and the Middle East. She finds that no transitions to democracy are the same because every country starts in a different place. Pathways diverge and sometimes circle backward. Time frames for success vary dramatically, and countries often suffer false starts before getting it right. But, Rice argues, that does not mean they should not try. While the ideal conditions for democracy are well known in academia, they never exist in the real world. The question is not how to create perfect circumstances but how to move forward under difficult ones.
These same insights apply in overcoming the challenges faced by governments today. The pursuit of democracy is a continuing struggle shared by people around the world, whether they are opposing authoritarian regimes, establishing new democratic institutions, or reforming mature democracies to better live up to their ideals. The work of securing it is never finished.
In this book, Rice explains what these epochal events teach us about democracy. At a time when people around the world are wondering whether democracy is in decline, Rice shares insights from her experiences as a policymaker, scholar, and citizen, in order to put democracy's challenges into perspective.
When the United States was founded, it was the only attempt at self-government in the world. Today more than half of all countries qualify as democracies, and in the long run that number will continue to grow. Yet nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. Using America's long struggle as a template, Rice draws lessons for democracy around the world -- from Russia, Poland, and Ukraine, to Kenya, Colombia, and the Middle East. She finds that no transitions to democracy are the same because every country starts in a different place. Pathways diverge and sometimes circle backward. Time frames for success vary dramatically, and countries often suffer false starts before getting it right. But, Rice argues, that does not mean they should not try. While the ideal conditions for democracy are well known in academia, they never exist in the real world. The question is not how to create perfect circumstances but how to move forward under difficult ones.
These same insights apply in overcoming the challenges faced by governments today. The pursuit of democracy is a continuing struggle shared by people around the world, whether they are opposing authoritarian regimes, establishing new democratic institutions, or reforming mature democracies to better live up to their ideals. The work of securing it is never finished.
496 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
417 people are currently reading
3085 people want to read
About the author
Condoleezza Rice
31 books280 followersCondoleezza Rice is the 66th United States Secretary of State, and the second in the administration of President George W. Bush to hold the office. Rice is the first black woman, second African American (after her predecessor Colin Powell, who served from 2001 to 2005), and the second woman (after Madeleine Albright, who served from 1997 to 2001 in the Clinton Administration) to serve as Secretary of State. Rice was President Bush's National Security Advisor during his first term. Before joining the Bush administration, she was a professor of political science at Stanford University where she served as Provost from 1993 to 1999. During the administration of George H.W. Bush, Rice served as the Soviet and East European Affairs Advisor during the dissolution of the Soviet Union and German reunification.
When beginning as Secretary of State, Rice pioneered a policy of Transformational Diplomacy, with a focus on democracy in the greater Middle East. Her emphasis on supporting democratically elected governments faced challenges as Hamas captured a popular majority in Palestine yet supported Islamist terror, and influential countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt maintained authoritarian systems with US support. She chairs the Millennium Challenge Corporation's board of directors.
In addition to English, she speaks, with varying degrees of fluency, Russian, German, French, and Spanish.
When beginning as Secretary of State, Rice pioneered a policy of Transformational Diplomacy, with a focus on democracy in the greater Middle East. Her emphasis on supporting democratically elected governments faced challenges as Hamas captured a popular majority in Palestine yet supported Islamist terror, and influential countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt maintained authoritarian systems with US support. She chairs the Millennium Challenge Corporation's board of directors.
In addition to English, she speaks, with varying degrees of fluency, Russian, German, French, and Spanish.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
May 18, 2017
This book is Condoleezza Rice’s attempt to inform the reader about the idea of democracy promotion as a key goal for United States foreign policy. Rice states that the United States engaged in a policy of global engagement and the global extension of democracy. She states Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Obama worked within this overall framework. She has concerns about President Trump’s America First policy. Rice was the first black female Secretary of State and the second female Secretary of State.
Rice reviews the success and failures of democracy in various countries. Some of the countries she discusses are Russia, Egypt and Nigeria. I found the review of the situation in the Ukraine helpful particularly how Russia interfered in its election process. Rice reviewed the history and how the Ukraine got into its current situation. She describes the success of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in Liberia as a country where democracy has taken hold after a terrible civil war.
The book is well written and researched. Rice is an honest and sincere writer. She is candid about the times that democracy promotion has led to costly mistakes. She is forthright about mistakes in Iraq. She says democracy promotion is very hard work. I do not know if Rice will successfully change the mind of skeptics of democracy promotion, but everyone will be better educated and informed after reading this book.
I read this book as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is about thirteen hours long. Grace Angela Henry did a good job narrating the book. Henry is an actor, voice over artist, multi-lingual, award-winning audiobook narrator.
Rice reviews the success and failures of democracy in various countries. Some of the countries she discusses are Russia, Egypt and Nigeria. I found the review of the situation in the Ukraine helpful particularly how Russia interfered in its election process. Rice reviewed the history and how the Ukraine got into its current situation. She describes the success of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in Liberia as a country where democracy has taken hold after a terrible civil war.
The book is well written and researched. Rice is an honest and sincere writer. She is candid about the times that democracy promotion has led to costly mistakes. She is forthright about mistakes in Iraq. She says democracy promotion is very hard work. I do not know if Rice will successfully change the mind of skeptics of democracy promotion, but everyone will be better educated and informed after reading this book.
I read this book as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is about thirteen hours long. Grace Angela Henry did a good job narrating the book. Henry is an actor, voice over artist, multi-lingual, award-winning audiobook narrator.
December 26, 2017
One of the most informative and interesting books I have ever read. It is like taking a class from a top level professor. This woman should be President.
June 14, 2017
Let me try to sum it up this way: Written by a brilliant scholar, extremely informative, historically accurate and dry as dust in many spots. Rice focuses on the challenges for democracies - especially younger ones. There were some brilliant parts which are apropos for today - where she discusses populist governments - what demographics vote for them and why as well as the dangers found within.
She was spot on about the election of Trump and why - although she has been very circumspect - "once he got elected"- even though after his Access Hollywood expose' - she said "Enough". My opinion is that she is hiding behind semantics and parses her words and nuances to make everything politically correct when discussing the anomaly which is the current president.
Rice is pitch perfect on the following:
"I really do believe that these populists are changing the character of the politics just by being there, so even mainstream candidates are having to respond to their agenda," Rice told Capital Download. "You see fewer people talking about free trade. You see countries talking about industrial policy and protectionism. It's hard to defend immigrants almost any place in the world today. ...
Another point that she makes that is "spot on":
When modern democracies falter, it is usually “a story of executive authority that is outsized in comparison to other institutions,” Rice explains. And strongmen, she says, are sneakier than they used to be. “In today’s interconnected world, the creeping and subtle authoritarianism of illiberal elected leaders is a greater threat to democracy than if they were to crush it with tanks in the city square.”
She was spot on about the election of Trump and why - although she has been very circumspect - "once he got elected"- even though after his Access Hollywood expose' - she said "Enough". My opinion is that she is hiding behind semantics and parses her words and nuances to make everything politically correct when discussing the anomaly which is the current president.
Rice is pitch perfect on the following:
"I really do believe that these populists are changing the character of the politics just by being there, so even mainstream candidates are having to respond to their agenda," Rice told Capital Download. "You see fewer people talking about free trade. You see countries talking about industrial policy and protectionism. It's hard to defend immigrants almost any place in the world today. ...
Another point that she makes that is "spot on":
When modern democracies falter, it is usually “a story of executive authority that is outsized in comparison to other institutions,” Rice explains. And strongmen, she says, are sneakier than they used to be. “In today’s interconnected world, the creeping and subtle authoritarianism of illiberal elected leaders is a greater threat to democracy than if they were to crush it with tanks in the city square.”
June 17, 2023
I really enjoyed the approach of this book. Several of the chapters examine the journey of a country toward democracy: Poland, Russia, Liberia, Ukraine, Kenya, Iraq, Afghanistan, and more. She starts with a brief look at the United States and also mentions the UK in various chapters. Some of the material is dated since it was published in 2016, but it provided valuable insight and perspective based in her rich experience.
June 17, 2017
Condi for President!
May 20, 2021
an outstanding overview of democracy drawn from history and her own experiences, drawing general observations from many relatively recent events with which we are familiar ... beautifully written
May 4, 2018
This book speaks to America's "mission" to promote and foster democracies globally before, during and after her tenure as National Security Adviser and as Secretary of State. She addresses that America has not always been perfect in offering freedom for all even within our own borders. And she also addresses mistakes made in working with other countries as we promote democracy while acknowledging that all democracies, including our own, have flaws and will never become the "perfect union", but that surviving and growing stronger is a never ending process. She refers to places when democracies are introduced in totalitarian countries, authoritarian nations, and quasi-democratic countries where democracies are new and struggling.
Some of her examples show attempts but complete failures, some show partial success and some are quite promising. She speaks to the recent histories of Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Kenya, Colombian, Iraq, Tunisia, Egypt, the Arab monarchies and others in her attempt to outline the "long road to freedom". She ends with addressing 2016 globally when America and others seemed to want to withdraw from responsibilities of the system they helped to create. And she warns that what she refers to as "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse - populism, nativism, protectionism, and isolationism - served neither democracy nor peace very well the last time (they were) around".
She sums up her stories to freedom saying the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness can be achieved, but that "that achievement involves taking a hard look at the realities facing Americans . . . . (and that) we are better off when we work to make this (pursuit) true not just for us - but for all humankind." This is the part of democracy going forward that so thoroughly is alarming to me - how many Americans today understand that our fate as a nation is so intertwined internationally. America for Americans only is a true recipe for failure.
Some of her examples show attempts but complete failures, some show partial success and some are quite promising. She speaks to the recent histories of Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Kenya, Colombian, Iraq, Tunisia, Egypt, the Arab monarchies and others in her attempt to outline the "long road to freedom". She ends with addressing 2016 globally when America and others seemed to want to withdraw from responsibilities of the system they helped to create. And she warns that what she refers to as "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse - populism, nativism, protectionism, and isolationism - served neither democracy nor peace very well the last time (they were) around".
She sums up her stories to freedom saying the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness can be achieved, but that "that achievement involves taking a hard look at the realities facing Americans . . . . (and that) we are better off when we work to make this (pursuit) true not just for us - but for all humankind." This is the part of democracy going forward that so thoroughly is alarming to me - how many Americans today understand that our fate as a nation is so intertwined internationally. America for Americans only is a true recipe for failure.
October 3, 2017
This book strikes you as one that you might read in a history class on the evolution of democracy. Meaning it is a tad dry. On the flip side, it is a wonderful synopsis of how democracy emerges in the real world. Hint: It's pretty messy. It also illustrates how the U.S. has helped paved the way and how well the efforts to support democracy has worked. Ms. Rice goes country by country, including Iraq, Russia, Poland, and Columbia, and it's fascinating to read about the different challenges each country faced and the ultimate outcomes.
This book politically neutral until the very last chapter (which is still mild). You can tell Ms. Rice is an incredible professor. She certainly supports the idea that the U.S. needs to assist these emerging democracies, but she doesn't hit you over the head with her own biases, but rather shares stories that gently lead the reader to their own conclusion.
This book is very accessible to the mainstream reader, and I would absolutely recommend it. I only give it three stars because I fear readers may find it dry, but it is clearly and concisely presented.
This book politically neutral until the very last chapter (which is still mild). You can tell Ms. Rice is an incredible professor. She certainly supports the idea that the U.S. needs to assist these emerging democracies, but she doesn't hit you over the head with her own biases, but rather shares stories that gently lead the reader to their own conclusion.
This book is very accessible to the mainstream reader, and I would absolutely recommend it. I only give it three stars because I fear readers may find it dry, but it is clearly and concisely presented.
July 27, 2017
A very thoughtful book from former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice. Rice uses her own personal experiences in a number of countries (including the United States) to discuss the factors at play in successful democracies and highlighting the difficulty of creating and maintaining democracies. From her childhood in the Jim Crow south all the way to the populist world elections of 2016, she explores the dangers to democracy and the tenant that it is something that should be encouraged and fought for. Her vantage point as parts of both Bush 41 and Bush 43's administrations allows insight into the challenges that faced a reconstituted Germany, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Kenya, Iraq, Egypt, Liberia, and Columbia (among others). Some of her points have been made in more depth and academic rigor (particularly in Frances Fukuyama's books on political order), but this book acts as a less dense and more approachable look at the steady march of democracy across the globe. She stresses that while there are setbacks and no democracy is ever perfected, but a continuous work in progress, that Churchill was right about democracy "being the worst form of government, except for all the others." For those looking for some details from the inside about the turmoil and mistakes in Iraq, that is discussed (though not as fully as some might like). In the end, this is a considered and careful evaluation of democracy in the late 20th and early 21st century and a challenge to the United States to continue to support burgeoning democracy, to turn aside from isolationism and the like, and to continue to try to live up to our best principles.
June 7, 2017
Hearing the author discuss the book in an interview made me want to read her work. Her understanding of the world is based on her experiences in a number of roles and spans decades. Although she's a professor, this book surely doesn't read like a text but it is just loaded with details and concepts that left me absolutely in awe. She knew and knows personally so many world leaders and and understands their personal idiosyncrasies as well as those of the countries they represented. Her authority is unquestionable and her perspective is realistic and unbiased.
May 29, 2017
Democracies, and the liberties they protect, are extremely fragile. Condoleezza Rice surveys the struggles of nations and regions to turn to democracy and provide the liberties that make democracies sustainable through turbulent times. While not explicitly focused on the United States, its lessons for maintaining our democracy are as timely as ever and easy to glean from her writing. The United States has passed the midpoint longevity for empires and world superpowers. One of many critical lessons: We need to refocus on protecting the freedoms espoused in our Bill of Rights if we want to be a beacon of hope for the repressed nations and peoples of the world.
May 20, 2017
"Democracy is imperfect at the beginning and will remain so. But men and women still crave it. It alone affords human beings the dignity that comes when those who would govern them have to ask for their consent."
May 13, 2017
The Puritan, John Winthrop spoke of America as “the city on a hill” as he gazed upon the shores of his new home from the confines of his ship, theArbella. President Ronald Reagan inspired freedom lovers around the world as he too spoke in glowing terms of this “city on a hill.” Winthrop and Reagan captured the very heartbeat of every human being with that phrase as they echoed the cry for freedom - a freedom which is made possible by democracy.
Former Secretary of State, Dr. Condoleeza Rice paints a beautiful portrait of freedom in her most recent book, Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom. Rice explores the early foundations of American democracy by providing a basic framework for freedom.
Most of the book is devoted to telling stories about the hope of democracy in countries like the Russian Federation, Columbia, Poland, Kenya, and the Middle East. Readers will not be surprised to learn that while democracy is on the rise in the world, the promise of democracy is usually a long path and is usually accompanied by pain and bloodshed. Some nations like Germany and Japan are “stabilizing forces for good.” But other nations like Russian and China “seem determined to disrupt the global order.”
Dr. Rice makes full use of her experience as Secretary of State by sharing stories about her role in helping various nations move forward in their quest for democracy. Readers will quickly note that Secretary Rice has a passion for freedom and is quick to defend the downtrodden. Rice adds, “Giving voice to the voiceless is a moral cause for a country - America that is based on an idea: that human freedom is the source of human dignity and progress. That cannot be true for us and not for them.”
Democracy by Condoleeza Rice is a book for every American. Liberals and conservatives alike should digest this book and be reminded of the great price of freedom. Indeed, “The United States has been a north star for those seeking liberty not because it is perfect, but because it was born imperfect and is still struggling with imperfection. That has always been the best argument for America’s example - and America’s engagement. We are living proof that the work of democracy is never done. For those who are just starting - stumbling, and starting again - that is reassuring and inspiring. And it is reason to be a voice for them as they struggle in their freedom - just as we do - to chart a better future.”
Dr. Rice tells about the time she visited the home of Lech Wałęsa in Gdańsk, Poland. One hundred thousand Polish workers were waving flags and shouting, “Bush, Bush, Bush … Freedom, Freedom, Freedom.” Rick turned to her colleague as said, “This is not exactly what Karl Marx meant when he said, ‘Workers of the world unite.”
So the atheistic worldview of Karl Marx is relegated to the ash heap of history. And the city on a hill shines brightly, still. However, there are still forces that loom large and cast a dark shadow on our liberty. Democracy is a celebration of our liberty and a vivid reminder of the freedom we enjoy as Americans.
Highly recommended!
Former Secretary of State, Dr. Condoleeza Rice paints a beautiful portrait of freedom in her most recent book, Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom. Rice explores the early foundations of American democracy by providing a basic framework for freedom.
Most of the book is devoted to telling stories about the hope of democracy in countries like the Russian Federation, Columbia, Poland, Kenya, and the Middle East. Readers will not be surprised to learn that while democracy is on the rise in the world, the promise of democracy is usually a long path and is usually accompanied by pain and bloodshed. Some nations like Germany and Japan are “stabilizing forces for good.” But other nations like Russian and China “seem determined to disrupt the global order.”
Dr. Rice makes full use of her experience as Secretary of State by sharing stories about her role in helping various nations move forward in their quest for democracy. Readers will quickly note that Secretary Rice has a passion for freedom and is quick to defend the downtrodden. Rice adds, “Giving voice to the voiceless is a moral cause for a country - America that is based on an idea: that human freedom is the source of human dignity and progress. That cannot be true for us and not for them.”
Democracy by Condoleeza Rice is a book for every American. Liberals and conservatives alike should digest this book and be reminded of the great price of freedom. Indeed, “The United States has been a north star for those seeking liberty not because it is perfect, but because it was born imperfect and is still struggling with imperfection. That has always been the best argument for America’s example - and America’s engagement. We are living proof that the work of democracy is never done. For those who are just starting - stumbling, and starting again - that is reassuring and inspiring. And it is reason to be a voice for them as they struggle in their freedom - just as we do - to chart a better future.”
Dr. Rice tells about the time she visited the home of Lech Wałęsa in Gdańsk, Poland. One hundred thousand Polish workers were waving flags and shouting, “Bush, Bush, Bush … Freedom, Freedom, Freedom.” Rick turned to her colleague as said, “This is not exactly what Karl Marx meant when he said, ‘Workers of the world unite.”
So the atheistic worldview of Karl Marx is relegated to the ash heap of history. And the city on a hill shines brightly, still. However, there are still forces that loom large and cast a dark shadow on our liberty. Democracy is a celebration of our liberty and a vivid reminder of the freedom we enjoy as Americans.
Highly recommended!
December 6, 2018
Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom is enlightening; it provides a window into the complexity of countries making their way towards democratic governance with Rice sharing her experiences as Secretary of State under George W. Bush’s presidency. Those of us living in full democracies may take it for granted, apparent after reading of the struggles countries and their people experience when transitioning to democratic governance. There are a multitude of factors that affect the process: religion, history of leaders and their governing style, regional identities, geography, social media and other factors that Rice highlights via her accounts of the countries she profiles that include Ukraine, Russia, Kenya and collectively the Middle East. She quotes Winston Churchill, ‘Democracy is the worst…Except for all the others’ which summarizes well the process of democracy succinctly.
Chapter ten, of the same title of Churchill’s quote, reviews five lessons of democratic institutions which Rice emphasizes are always a work in progress. She also stresses that the transitions are neither immediate successes or immediate failures but are steps towards giving people of a country a voice, and that the steps forward and back are part of the process. Rice’s wisdom is instructive. What I found most interesting was the section on Iraq. Many Americans feel Iraq was a failure; an unnecessary war based on the fact there were no weapons of mass destruction found, which was the premise for US’s invasion and overthrow of the regime. Rice does acknowledge the errors made, yet the Iraq people were not free, were under the rule of dictator who among other things killed his people for 'unspeakable' acts. Today as a result of the US and partner countries efforts, Iraq operates in a quasi-democratic fashion and though the institutions are weak, Iraq has a constitution. Iraqis can vote including women, and women make up 25% of its parliament. Though somewhat restricted today, there is also freedom of press and the internet is not restricted for the most part. The war was not a waste, albeit messy and expensive, but not a waste given an oppressed country’s people were liberated.
Democracy is an excellent book that any reader interested in learning more about the path to democracy from the perspective of someone who has first-hand experience. Given the current political climate around the world, the book’s an instructive read, even a must-read for all citizens living in democratic countries to see the intricacies of democracy and what it means to be ‘free’.
Chapter ten, of the same title of Churchill’s quote, reviews five lessons of democratic institutions which Rice emphasizes are always a work in progress. She also stresses that the transitions are neither immediate successes or immediate failures but are steps towards giving people of a country a voice, and that the steps forward and back are part of the process. Rice’s wisdom is instructive. What I found most interesting was the section on Iraq. Many Americans feel Iraq was a failure; an unnecessary war based on the fact there were no weapons of mass destruction found, which was the premise for US’s invasion and overthrow of the regime. Rice does acknowledge the errors made, yet the Iraq people were not free, were under the rule of dictator who among other things killed his people for 'unspeakable' acts. Today as a result of the US and partner countries efforts, Iraq operates in a quasi-democratic fashion and though the institutions are weak, Iraq has a constitution. Iraqis can vote including women, and women make up 25% of its parliament. Though somewhat restricted today, there is also freedom of press and the internet is not restricted for the most part. The war was not a waste, albeit messy and expensive, but not a waste given an oppressed country’s people were liberated.
Democracy is an excellent book that any reader interested in learning more about the path to democracy from the perspective of someone who has first-hand experience. Given the current political climate around the world, the book’s an instructive read, even a must-read for all citizens living in democratic countries to see the intricacies of democracy and what it means to be ‘free’.
December 7, 2025
Dr. Rice provides us with a series of examples of nations struggling for Democracy. She starts with the United States to prove that it is always a struggle and faltering, even in the most famous Democracy. This bolsters her case that we should celebrate countries that still have a long way to go as they keep moving the right direction. Her scholarly work is backed by her own life experiences on the front lines of Democracy all around the world.
As Secretary of State she surpassed all her predecessors by traveling to countries on behalf of the United States and her stories and personal experiences add practical meaning to the analysis of these Democracies.
She is a crisp writer who does not allow herself to spend too much time theorizing, but rather prefers to let the facts speak for themselves.
As Secretary of State she surpassed all her predecessors by traveling to countries on behalf of the United States and her stories and personal experiences add practical meaning to the analysis of these Democracies.
She is a crisp writer who does not allow herself to spend too much time theorizing, but rather prefers to let the facts speak for themselves.
June 23, 2017
Very good discussion of how democracies may come about and the conditions that help or hinder the transition from an authoritarian state to a democratic state. The value of other institutions is apparent - besides a free press, institutions like labor unions, universities, churches... democracy is enabled by the existence of strong institutions (and destroying or constraining those institutions is something that authoritarian governments do to preserve their status quo).
August 4, 2017
OK, I give up. I can only find this audio version on Goodreads. I bought the book, and really found it interesting. Dr. Rice's background goes to show why experts are important in this world. No one person can know everything about everything, and Dr. Rice knows a s***load about democracy and diplomacy. I am glad she was once our Secretary of State. She's not a swamp dweller, but a truly qualified expert.
No matter your political affiliation, I highly recommend reading this book.
No matter your political affiliation, I highly recommend reading this book.
July 1, 2017
I don't normally read political books, but I saw it on CNN and have always respected Condoleeza Rice.
I found this book very compelling and easy to read. Some parts might be more a review for those who already know all this history or have been paying attention to foreign affairs. I found the anecdotes very interesting, though.
I found this book very compelling and easy to read. Some parts might be more a review for those who already know all this history or have been paying attention to foreign affairs. I found the anecdotes very interesting, though.
January 1, 2022
"Democracy" is as insightful and inspirational as I had hoped, by someone I have long admired. It's partly a memoir of Condoleezza Rice's time in government (on the National Security Council for George H.W. Bush, then National Security Advisor and Secretary of State for George W. Bush), and partly a deep exploration of the messy pathways of countries seeking democracy.
Through case studies of Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Kenya, Colombia, Iraq, Egypt, Tunisia, and others, she focuses on the importance of institutions that allow democracy to take hold (courts, press freedom, civil society, independent labor unions, etc.). A strong theme is that the countries with at least some strong institutions tend to make the transition from authoritarianism to democracy faster and with less chaos. Those with fewer or weaker institutions struggle much more.
She is unabashed about the critical role the United States has played in the world, but I appreciated that she doesn't gloss over democracy's failings or the failings of the United States, either internally or abroad. She frequently and movingly relates her family's fight for freedom and equal rights to those seeking the same throughout the world.
She's candid about mistakes of the Bush Administration and personal decisions she got wrong. She offers some mild criticism of Donald Rumsfeld, which I thought was fair and more diplomatic than his criticism of her in his autobiography years ago. But most of her criticisms of colleagues are combined with praise for what they brought to the table.
The book was published in May 2017, so she touches only briefly on the 2016 election. It leaves you wondering what she’d write of the last five years if she were publishing now, especially the rapidly declining trust in American institutions and the results of that erosion. It’s fascinating to read about countries moving in the right direction (albeit slowly and uncertainly) while watching our own country stumble steadily in the wrong direction. Americans could learn a bit from observing the eagerness of people in third world countries to have what we take for granted.
“Democracy” is a nuanced, humble, well-written, and educational book. It made me wish we had someone like Condoleezza Rice leading our country (and the free world)—a serious person of character, aware of politics but not obsessed with them, respectful of the constraints on the presidency and the role of other institutions, deeply educated about the world, and totally prepared to lead.
Through case studies of Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Kenya, Colombia, Iraq, Egypt, Tunisia, and others, she focuses on the importance of institutions that allow democracy to take hold (courts, press freedom, civil society, independent labor unions, etc.). A strong theme is that the countries with at least some strong institutions tend to make the transition from authoritarianism to democracy faster and with less chaos. Those with fewer or weaker institutions struggle much more.
She is unabashed about the critical role the United States has played in the world, but I appreciated that she doesn't gloss over democracy's failings or the failings of the United States, either internally or abroad. She frequently and movingly relates her family's fight for freedom and equal rights to those seeking the same throughout the world.
She's candid about mistakes of the Bush Administration and personal decisions she got wrong. She offers some mild criticism of Donald Rumsfeld, which I thought was fair and more diplomatic than his criticism of her in his autobiography years ago. But most of her criticisms of colleagues are combined with praise for what they brought to the table.
The book was published in May 2017, so she touches only briefly on the 2016 election. It leaves you wondering what she’d write of the last five years if she were publishing now, especially the rapidly declining trust in American institutions and the results of that erosion. It’s fascinating to read about countries moving in the right direction (albeit slowly and uncertainly) while watching our own country stumble steadily in the wrong direction. Americans could learn a bit from observing the eagerness of people in third world countries to have what we take for granted.
“Democracy” is a nuanced, humble, well-written, and educational book. It made me wish we had someone like Condoleezza Rice leading our country (and the free world)—a serious person of character, aware of politics but not obsessed with them, respectful of the constraints on the presidency and the role of other institutions, deeply educated about the world, and totally prepared to lead.
October 20, 2017
"Stories from the Long Road to Freedom" is a good title for this book. "Democracy" not so much; more accurately it should be "Struggles toward Democracy."
The stories are taken from Condi Rice's own experiences, from her childhood in Alabama to her college years focusing on Russia and politics, and as a member of conservative government in the USA. She has had a front row seat to a lot of the late 20th-century politics and upheavals and struggles toward freedom, liberty, democratic government, around the world. She tells us of those experiences and opines on what they mean, for their countries and ours, and for the future. It is in her opining I find the weakness of the book. I believe her to be honest and sincere but I think she fails to see the part the Republican Party has played, really, in democracy's struggles, around the globe and in today's undemocratic America. Though, at the end of the book, she writes that "Troubling trends and questions hang over the future of American democracy" too.
When she speaks of struggles for democracy in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kenya, Columbia, Liberia, the Middle East, she sees the issues and problems facing them -- but not how those same issues are facing us. For example, she says:
She writes that democracy alone "affords human beings the dignity that comes when those who would govern them have to ask for their consent. There is simply no alternative." I agree with her mightily! Yet what I see in today's politics belies that sentiment from her own Party elders and their new leader.
She says "decent societies must make steady progress on issues of corruption and violence and inequality." Again, I agree. Again, I see the USA backsliding, turning away from democracy and toward authoritarianism. I wish Rice saw it too. Or, if she does, would say so.
She says "If democracy is to work, people need a way to ... present [their interests] to those who would govern. And those who would govern have to represent those interests." Again, I agree! But that is NOT how it is working today in the USA. Lobbyists and billionaires control politics; not the People, not the voters. And the popular vote winner loses -- to the popular vote loser. That is undemocratic and anti-democratic. And people know it! She believes in the Bush doctrine of spreading democracy around the globe. I'm not sure I think it is either our duty or our right but she makes a compelling case. The problem is, democracy is under attack here too.
I appreciate her thoughtfulness and thoroughness with her subject matter. And her insider's view and experiences. The first seven chapters chronicle those experiences. They are fascinating reading. The last few chapters are more philosophical. Everyone should read them -- in the light, not of Africa or South America or the Middle East, but of the United States of America and what we are becoming. I truly fear for democratic processes here. I wish I had her optimism. I wish I had her faith in Democracy itself. She writes, at the end, "democracy is built for disruption with its institutions, its checks and balances, and its shock absorber -- the ability of people to change their circumstances peacefully." Every one concerned with democracy, liberty, the freedoms of the Bill of Rights, should read the last chapter, "2016," if they read nothing else. When they do, they'll probably want to read the whole book. I think I'll read it all again.
The stories are taken from Condi Rice's own experiences, from her childhood in Alabama to her college years focusing on Russia and politics, and as a member of conservative government in the USA. She has had a front row seat to a lot of the late 20th-century politics and upheavals and struggles toward freedom, liberty, democratic government, around the world. She tells us of those experiences and opines on what they mean, for their countries and ours, and for the future. It is in her opining I find the weakness of the book. I believe her to be honest and sincere but I think she fails to see the part the Republican Party has played, really, in democracy's struggles, around the globe and in today's undemocratic America. Though, at the end of the book, she writes that "Troubling trends and questions hang over the future of American democracy" too.
When she speaks of struggles for democracy in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kenya, Columbia, Liberia, the Middle East, she sees the issues and problems facing them -- but not how those same issues are facing us. For example, she says:
Governing is hard in the most advanced democracies. When the institutions -- civil service, educational system, health care system -- are underdeveloped, it is especially hard. Building the infrastructure of democracy ... takes time.Yet isn't it these very institutions, along with journalism and the courts, that are under attack in the US at this very moment?
She writes that democracy alone "affords human beings the dignity that comes when those who would govern them have to ask for their consent. There is simply no alternative." I agree with her mightily! Yet what I see in today's politics belies that sentiment from her own Party elders and their new leader.
She says "decent societies must make steady progress on issues of corruption and violence and inequality." Again, I agree. Again, I see the USA backsliding, turning away from democracy and toward authoritarianism. I wish Rice saw it too. Or, if she does, would say so.
She says "If democracy is to work, people need a way to ... present [their interests] to those who would govern. And those who would govern have to represent those interests." Again, I agree! But that is NOT how it is working today in the USA. Lobbyists and billionaires control politics; not the People, not the voters. And the popular vote winner loses -- to the popular vote loser. That is undemocratic and anti-democratic. And people know it! She believes in the Bush doctrine of spreading democracy around the globe. I'm not sure I think it is either our duty or our right but she makes a compelling case. The problem is, democracy is under attack here too.
I appreciate her thoughtfulness and thoroughness with her subject matter. And her insider's view and experiences. The first seven chapters chronicle those experiences. They are fascinating reading. The last few chapters are more philosophical. Everyone should read them -- in the light, not of Africa or South America or the Middle East, but of the United States of America and what we are becoming. I truly fear for democratic processes here. I wish I had her optimism. I wish I had her faith in Democracy itself. She writes, at the end, "democracy is built for disruption with its institutions, its checks and balances, and its shock absorber -- the ability of people to change their circumstances peacefully." Every one concerned with democracy, liberty, the freedoms of the Bill of Rights, should read the last chapter, "2016," if they read nothing else. When they do, they'll probably want to read the whole book. I think I'll read it all again.
October 23, 2023
An amazing book by one of my all time favorite people in government. This woman is brilliant! And this book is a must read to understand the the battles for democracy worldwide. It is both a discussion of the factors crucial for successful democracies, and also a look at various areas worldwide in which democracy has failed, or failed thus far, and why. There are many valuable points made--one of the most relevant, or so it seems to me, is that the path to democracy is not a quick progression through a linear set of milestones. Instead, it is messy. There are gains and losses, glimmers of hope and hopes dashed, regression and then small signs of hope once again. And unfortunately, a great deal of suffering in between. She does spend time discussing the situation in Iraq, but perhaps somewhat on the defensive. Even so, she makes many good points about mistakes made and lessons to be learned--although perhaps the greatest lesson to be learned is that changes in the American administration should not wreak havoc with the hard work done, the lives lost, the small steps made, because the changes in policy can have far reaching consequences that make dire situations in totalitarian states far worse. Very thought provoking.
January 24, 2019
"Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom" was the foreign policy book I hoped for... despite my usually-good coworker's recommendation, I expected to argue with it a lot more than I did. Thoughtful, exceedingly informative in its coverage of countries whose democratic process I knew little about, still insightful in cases where I did know or remember the relevant history. While there were places where I disagreed with Rice's analysis, she also has way more information about many of these situations than I do, having been directly involved. Regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, if you're a foreign policy wonk, it's a very worthwhile read. I found the chapters on Kenya and Colombia particularly valuable, and of course her background in Soviet studies makes her commentary on Russian expansionism and authoritarianism well worth reading.
November 24, 2020
I wish I would have appreciated Condoleezza Rice more when she was in office. After reading Bush's Decision Points and this book and having the Trump administration I do appreciate Rice much more. She gives a lot of insight especially to Russia/Ukraine and Iraq that are still effecting world relations today.
March 31, 2018
This is a book I would buy to give to others to read. Condoleezza Rice did a great job of walking us through the political histories of all the countries that have fought for democracy over the last 100 years or so. It was educational and helped me understand more about why we may or may not support certain leaders, provide funding, etc. I will definitely read some of her books now.
March 31, 2025
Great book detailing the opportunities and challenges of democracy for the world. Includes great insight and stories from Rice’s years working for US presidential administrations.
October 24, 2017
This is an in-depth and well researched look at the growth and decay of democracy across the world through the eyes of someone who is intimately aware of the details. From growing up in the deep South as a black girl during the Civil Rights Movement to studying in Russia and the Eastern Bloc during the waning years of the Cold War to serving as first National Security Advisor and then Secretary of State during the tumultuous times following 9/11, Condoleezza Rice shares insights and gripping stories that bolster her view of democracy as the best (though at times flawed) form of government. While at times she acts as a bit of an apologist for the Bush administration, she also notes instances where mistakes were made or different choices might have improved outcomes. In the end, the book is a love story for democracy and despite the recent departure in areas of the world from democratic reform, it leaves one hopeful that democratic principles will continue to spread as the people demand freedom.
October 28, 2017
I expected to enjoy this book more than I did after listening to her excellent memoir, but it was still very good. Weaving together fairly straighforward histories of the development of democracy during her years of involvement with her personal experience, she highlights themes of the need for strong institutions and a well-developed civil society.
October 30, 2017
Condolezza Rice provides an analysis of the modern struggle for Democracy with great depth and compassion. Definitely worth the time.
October 29, 2017
I won this book through Goodreads. Really enjoyed. So interesting and informative. Loved it.
February 16, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed reading and learning about Condoleeza Rice who is an amazing, impressive, and remarkable individual. Her leadership, strength, and dignity along with her vast knowledge of democracy and the ever evolving history of world events are absolutely admirable. It would be humbling to be one of her students.
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