Prequel: An American Fight Against Fascism

Prequel to the hit podcast Ultra, Rachel Maddow’s #1 New York Times bestseller uncovers a shocking World War II–era plot to undermine American democracy from within.

Drawing on real events, Maddow reveals how far-right extremists, politicians, and propagandists sought to align the U.S. with Nazi Germany—spreading disinformation, promoting antisemitism, and plotting violent insurrection.

Amid this threat, a small group of journalists, activists, and Justice Department officials fought to expose the conspiracy and bring the plotters to justice—though their efforts were met with powerful political resistance.

Fast-paced and deeply relevant, Maddow’s gripping narrative shows how the struggle to defend democracy against authoritarian forces is not new—but an enduring American battle.