Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, InspiringAuthoritarianism is one of the buzzwords of our age. But what is it exactly? This Very Short Introduction provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of authoritarian regimes, including military, single-party, and personalist regimes. It examines how understandings of authoritarianism have evolved over time, as well as the curious fact that many authoritarian regimes today hold elections. James Loxton explains the "life cycle" of authoritarian regimes: from democratic breakdown, to challenges that authoritarian regimes face, and how changes in the international environment and the decisions of the democratic opposition can encourage authoritarian regimes to give up power. The author also asks why some authoritarian regimes are more durable than others, and what kinds of legacies authoritarian regimes may leave behind after a transition to democracy. This Very Short Introduction shows how factors such as natural resource wealth, origins in violent revolution, and cross-border collaboration can contribute to authoritarian durability. It ends by looking at the disturbing fact that voters in many new democracies use their newfound rights to send former authoritarian officials back to office. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.