Fact check: Historically, most dictators have been right-wing.

1. Summary of the results

The statement requires significant nuance. While there is substantial documentation of right-wing dictatorships throughout history across multiple continents ^{[1] [1]}, including Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and various regimes in South America, Asia, and Africa, recent research challenges the exclusivity of this characterization. Studies by Thomas H. Costello and colleagues demonstrate that authoritarianism exists on both ends of the political spectrum ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several crucial pieces of context are missing from the original statement:

• Historical Backing: Many right-wing dictatorships were actively supported by Western powers, particularly the United States during the Cold War ^{[1] [1]}
• Common Characteristics: Right-wing dictatorships typically shared specific traits including:
• Anti-communist ideology
• Traditionalism
• Nationalism
• Protection of existing social orders ^[1]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The statement oversimplifies a complex historical and political phenomenon:

• It fails to acknowledge the existence of left-wing authoritarianism, which has been scientifically documented ^[2]
• The statement might serve political narratives that attempt to associate authoritarianism exclusively with right-wing ideology
• Some sources indicate that certain claims about historical dictatorships require additional verification, as noted by "[citation needed]" phrases in the documentation ^{[1] [1]}
• The statement's broad generalization could be used by political groups to delegitimize right-wing politics in general, rather than specifically addressing authoritarianism across the political spectrum