When America Stopped Being Great

When America Stopped Being Great by Nick Bryant delves deep into the complex interplay of political, economic, cultural, and technological elements that have led to America's perceived decline, setting the stage for Donald Trump's unexpected ascent to the presidency. Bryant, a seasoned BBC correspondent with decades of experience covering Washington, provides a highly personal and insightful account of how the United States reached this pivotal moment in its history.

The book meticulously examines how Trump exploited the missteps of his five predecessors—Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama. Bryant argues that Trump is not merely a historical anomaly but rather the almost inevitable outcome of a series of deeply rooted systemic failures. These include a fragmented political landscape, an unequal economy, a weakened media, a superficial culture, disruptive technologies, and a transformed presidency that values spectacle over substance.

As Bryant unfolds this narrative, he articulates his concern that America is not just witnessing a decline in global influence but is also grappling with the emergence of a "post-American" America. The tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 presidential election, when Trump refused to concede and incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol, serves as a stark illustration of the nation's profound and chronic state of disunion.

When America Stopped Being Great is not just a story of Trump's rise but also a poignant reflection on America's fall. Bryant's writing is imbued with a genuine love for America, even as he dissects its many flaws.

An elegant and insightful dissection of how a great nation lost its footing and the world's respect. The tragedy is made all the more stark by the genuine love of America in Nick Bryant's writing. - Leigh Sales

Nick Bryant writes like a dream and is one of those very rare things on TV—a man who makes you want to turn up the sound. His eye for description is sublime, and he has a way of showing you what you've been missing from the whole story, whilst never leaving you feeling stupid. - Emily Maitlis

Bryant is a genuine rarity—a Brit who understands America. - The Washington Post

When America Stopped Being Great is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the current state of American politics and the forces that have shaped it. Drawing on his rich reservoir of experience and a multitude of voices from America's heartland and halls of power, Bryant offers a compelling and thought-provoking analysis that is both profound and accessible.