The Dictator’s Playbook

PBS: Starts Thursday 12 December at 7.25pm

From Mussolini to Saddam Hussein, dictators dominated the twentieth century, ruling with ruthless authority and silencing opposition through fear and force. What drove these men to seek absolute control, and how did they rise to power?

With authoritarianism on the rise worldwide, understanding the brutal methods of past dictators feels more relevant than ever. In six gripping hours, we’ll explore how these notorious rulers seized control, crushed opposition, and ultimately fell—each following an unspoken Dictator’s Playbook that traces a chilling path of power and fear.

Join us to uncover the rise and fall of history’s most ruthless dictators—a compelling look at control, ambition, and its lasting lessons.