The Dictator's Playbook
From Mussolini to Saddam Hussein, dictators have shaped the world we live in. This series answers how dictators seized and wielded power in six immersive hours, each a revealing portrait of brutality.
- 1 season
- Documentary, Drama, Action & Adventure
From Mussolini to Saddam Hussein, dictators have shaped the world we live in. This series answers how dictators seized and wielded power in six immersive hours, each a revealing portrait of brutality.
Season 1 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 2018
Episode 1
Kim Il-Sung
Sat, Jun 2, 2018 53 mins
See how Kim Il Sung created a North Korean dictatorship that has lasted for three generations.
Episode 2
Saddam Hussein
Wed, Jan 16, 2019
Through his brutal use of violence, intimidation and torture Saddam Hussein managed to rule the nation for nearly a quarter of a century until he was finally deposed by US forces during the Invasion of Iraq in 2003.
Episode 3
Benito Mussolini
Wed, Jan 23, 2019 53 mins
See why Benito Mussolini was considered a pioneer among 20th century dictators. From undermining judges to indoctrinating children, he forged key tactics for seizing power. He also created fascism, an ideology that would plunge Europe into darkness.
Episode 4
Manuel Noriega
Wed, Jan 30, 2019
He rose through the Panamanian military to become chief of intelligence-and then, military dictator. Money laundering, drug trafficking and political crimes led to his downfall.
Episode 5
Francisco Franco
Wed, Feb 6, 2019
Learn how Francisco Franco used the tactics of colonial war to win control of Spain. Driven by a deeply conservative vision, he used torture, murder and incarceration to transform Spanish Society.
Episode 6
Idi Amin
Wed, Feb 13, 2019 53 mins
See how Idi Amin used lessons learned in the colonial British army to build a powerful dictatorship in Uganda. Through a combination of populist charm and brutal violence, he ruled for eight years - until his strategic blunders brought him down.
