Political strongman

Strongmen typically claim to have widespread popular support, portray themselves as the only one capable of solving the country's problems, and espouse a disdain for liberalism and democracy.

[9] Strongmen can assume political office either via democratic institutions or through a forceful seizure of power, such as a coup d'état or a revolution.

[8] In situations where a new government is formed by force, strongmen typically manifest gradually rather than immediately upon assuming power, especially following military coups.

[10] Strongmen are typically nationalist leaders;[12] they portray themselves as having strong popular support and claim to represent the people "against the elites".

[15] Strongmen push a narrative that they alone have the capability to solve their respective country's problems and wish to be admired "not just for their strength but also for their morality and their intellect".

[1] Rachman outlined that Putin began his presidency by portraying himself as respectful of Russia's democratic institutions but slowly consolidated his power over the course of the 2000s and 2010s.

[24] Similar to Putin, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan began his rule of Turkey as a liberal reformer, but gradually consolidated his power throughout his premiership and later his presidency.