Exceptions to Their Rule

"Exceptions to Their Rule" unveils the obscured narratives of the Basques and Wabanaki, two societies that thrived as democratic bastions amidst the autocratic darkness sweeping the globe from 1420 to 1620. Author Rick Sloan exposes the devastating impact of unchecked autocratic power while celebrating these resilient cultures that stood firm, embodying the spirit of liberty, mutual respect, and sustainable industry.

In "Exceptions to Their Rule," Rick Sloan invites readers to embark on a journey back to a world dominated by the iron grip of autocrats. From 1420 to 1620, monarchs, popes, and cardinals, driven by greed and lust for power, left a trail of destruction, decimating indigenous cultures across five continents. But amidst the chaos and devastation, two cultures—the Basques and the Wabanaki—emerged as beacons of hope, embodying the ideals of democracy and self-governance. The Basques, valiant warriors of their rights, shattered the stone fortresses of autocrats, nurturing a culture that prioritized universal nobility and self-rule. The Wabanaki—Mi'kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot—nurtured a cosmology that saw the divine in all things, fostering a society rooted in peace, sharing, and mutual respect. Sloan presents the fascinating interaction between these two cultures, united in their pursuits of sustainable industry—fishing, whaling, fur trading—and mutual understanding. This extraordinary alliance stands as a testament to the power of cooperation, respect, and common sense, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a path not taken. Yet, these democratic shoots were fragile, ultimately overshadowed by the might of autocratic forces. "Exceptions to Their Rule" is a compelling tribute to the resilience of the Basques and Wabanaki, reminding us of the enduring struggle between democracy and autocracy and the profound lessons we can learn from history.

Rick Sloan, a political strategist turned author, is renowned for his candid and compelling narratives. A seasoned veteran in democratic politics, Sloan has fought tirelessly against the rise of autocracy, his life and career defined by his unwavering commitment to democracy. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Ohio State University, Sloan has navigated thirteen presidential campaigns, worked alongside Senator Howard Metzenbaum and Congressman John Dingell, and fought against autocratic inclinations for over three decades. His writing style, far from polished Ivy League, carries the authenticity and grit of a true Buckeye. Sloan has penned a trilogy of books, each delving into the contentious struggle between democracy and autocracy. His latest work, "Exceptions to Their Rule: Basques and Wabanaki in an Age of Autocrats," is a stark reminder of the cataclysmic destruction wrought by unchecked autocratic power and a tribute to the cultures that defied this rule, illuminating a path towards a more democratic future. Living between Washington, D.C., and Brooklin, Maine, Sloan continues his fight for democracy, inspired by his wife's dedication to aging services and the promising careers of his three children in politics, public policy, and public health.