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Fortitude: American Resilience in the Era of Outrage
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Fortitude: American Resilience in the Era of Outrage

4.51  ·  Rating details ·  4,900 ratings  ·  700 reviews
Jordan Peterson's Twelve Rules for Life meets Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's Extreme Ownership in this tough-love leadership book from a Navy SEAL and rising star in Republican politics.

In 2012, on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan, a roadside bomb took Dan Crenshaw's right eye. When he learned how to see again, he didn't want anyone's pity. People shouldn't feel sorry
...more
Hardcover, 256 pages
Published April 7th 2020 by Twelve
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Average rating 4.51  · 
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 ·  4,900 ratings  ·  700 reviews


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Nico Alba
May 01, 2020 rated it it was amazing
First things first: I have my disagreements with Dan. They primarily stem from my secularism and his attribution of Judeo-Christian values as the philosophical underpinning of all western morality and law. With that being said, I respect the hell out of him and the conclusions we reach are the same even if our reasons for reaching them don't exactly line up.

This book is both an exploration and an antidote for the weakening culture of America. Human qualities like grit, discipline, and self-relia
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Lori White
Apr 08, 2020 rated it it was amazing  ·  review of another edition
Shelves: reviewed
Dan Crenshaw is a force to be reckoned with, and his first (first of many, I hope) book, Fortitude: Resilience in the Age of Outrage, is a call to action for America. I was just halfway through it when I started gifting copies to friends and family — it’s that good.

And potentially that life — and nation — changing.

A former Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander, decorated war veteran, elder millennial and current congressman from Texas, Crenshaw brings the full weight of research, mental toughness train
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Dave
Aug 21, 2020 rated it really liked it
Fortitude by war hero and rising political star Dan Crenshaw is surprisingly not about politics for the most part. Nor is it a biography although Crenshaw draws on his experience losing his mother to cancer as a young child, his years in Colombia and Ecuador as his father's work took him to these exotic locales, his near-fatal run-in with an I.E.D. In Afghanistan that stole an eye from him, and his training as a Navy SEAL. The heart of Crenshaw's book is a conviction that outrage culture and the ...more
Negin
Mar 06, 2021 rated it it was amazing  ·  review of another edition
Recommends it for: anyone who wishes to learn resilience and strength
Reading this was such a pleasure. Dan Crenshaw shares his story and the lessons that he’s learned along the way.

Most of us already know that Crenshaw served in the Navy SEALS and that he’s now a member of Congress. I didn’t know that when he was five and his brother was only one, his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I cannot even begin to imagine how difficult that must have been. Despite all her suffering, his mother’s courage and spirit are nothing short of examples as to how to be. S
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Diane Yannick
Aug 03, 2020 rated it liked it
I read this on the request of my 18 year old republican grandson. I realized that this grandmother's liberal views would be tested but feel that books are a great starting point for respectful discussions. AND for any of you with 18 year old grandsons, sometimes those discussions points are hard to come by. I would probably read anything he suggested. Or maybe not.


First, the reason I gave it 3 stars was not based on Crenshaw's opinions, even though I find it despicable that his voting record sh
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M. Hunter
Aug 17, 2020 rated it did not like it
Shelves: did-not-finish
Could not finish this book. Was filled with right-wing propaganda. Crenshaw's life story and military story are both very interesting and inspiring. However, his misguided attacks against democrats turned me off. He talks a good game about doing the right thing and being a good person, but when giving examples of the wrongs that politicians do he fails to mention the corruption in the current (Trump) administration. Just another republican sheep that cares little for American values. ...more
Matthew
Apr 14, 2020 rated it it was ok  ·  review of another edition
Timely, not timeless

I am not the intended audience. No faith in the implied higher power. That said:

The book is a scattershot organic bit of writing but cannot articulate the ideas well enough to stand on their own. Too much reliance on previous life experiences hinder the message being delivered in a clear and concise way.

Too much verbal gymnastics on the ideas of quitting and shame. The definition of both are archaic under this definition and makes me wonder if deviation and guilt were the wor
...more
Katy
Jun 24, 2020 rated it it was amazing
I don't read much nonfiction, but when I happened upon a video clip of the author calmly speaking to an emotional reactionary, I immediately thought, "I want to be like him." I looked him up and discovered this book, and boy am I GLAD I did! I can't recommend this book enough, especially during these times of over-the-top rage and lack of civility. Thanks, Dan Crenshaw, for writing such an accessible, practical, timely, and inspirational book!
Note: There are some f-bombs in a few sections here,
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Mark A. Smith
Apr 07, 2020 rated it it was amazing  ·  review of another edition
Recommended for Everyone

Crenshaw did an excellent job of explaining the modern 'outrage' problem and what can be done about it. Drawing from his experience as a Navy SEAL, he introduces relatable solutions. Looking forward to reading more of his work.
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Veronica Deats
Apr 16, 2020 rated it really liked it
Dan Crenshaw is a perfect example of someone whose political views I don’t necessarily agree with, but who I really like and respect. This book wasn’t 100% perfect, and there are times I felt like he missed the mark a little bit with some of his analogies and wording, but overall - this should be required reading on how to function as a productive member of society. His outlook on mental strength touched on some of my favorite subjects. You can be mentally tough and still compassionate. You can ...more
Molly McInturff
Dec 31, 2020 rated it it was amazing
What a great book to close out 2020 and help ring in the new year!

This book has several important life lessons for its reader, regardless of one’s political affiliation. In fact, I think it should be required reading on how to function as a productive member of society. Some key messages include:

“Government does not exist to end your suffering: it exists in order to create the proper structure, based on equality and justice, so that you may pursue your own happiness.”

“If you’re losing your cool,
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Joni Fisher
Oct 21, 2020 rated it it was amazing
Shelves: non-fiction
Fortitude American Resilience in the Era of Outrage by Dan Crenshaw
When a former Navy SEAL offers advice on developing fortitude, welcome the expert advice. The selfless genius of Dan Crenshaw is on display with wisdom, insight, and instructions on how to develop a mindset that overcomes danger and adversity. I highly recommend this book!
Here's a quote from the book that nails the insanity prevailing on social media and it society: "Outrage culture is the weaponization of emotion, and the elevation of emotion above reason. It is the new normal, where moral
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Christian Bohren
May 02, 2020 rated it it was amazing
Shelves: war-on-terror
Fortitude is 50% manifesto of mental toughness, 30% Conservative memorandum, 15% Navy SEAL memoir, 5% biography of an American high schooler playing soccer in Colombia. At times, Crenshaw can seem a little over eager to throw his achievements into your face. But then again, he isn't some kid who just beat you at Mario Kart. He overcame tragedy to become a Navy SEAL, got blown up, almost went blind, and is now a bad-ass, eye-patch wielding, US Congressman. So in true Crenshaw fashion, get over it ...more
Grant
Oct 23, 2020 rated it did not like it
Nearly gave this 2 stars as it comes across as better written Ben Shapiro book with some nuggets of truth but the lols I had reading towards the end that Dan believes corporations don’t really control policy. I’m going to be laughing for days.
Julianne Martin
Feb 17, 2021 rated it it was amazing
Shelves: favorites
This is one of my favorite nonfiction books I’ve ever read. I don’t even know how to describe how much I enjoyed it. The book talks about Crenshaws’s hardships and how instead of seeing himself as a victim he figured out how to preserve and achieve his goals. The book taught me a lot about having a positive mindset and how that can change your life. I’m so glad I read it and I really hope he writes more books in the future.
S
Jun 20, 2020 rated it it was amazing  ·  review of another edition
Excellent book. Read it, reread it, give it to friends, family or anyone questioning what the heck is going on in the United States today. Dan does a terrific job of explaining the undeniable decline occurring in this country and why we cannot give in to the outrage mob or "fall into the trap of mediocrity". I love the following concepts covered in Fortitude:
* No plan B;
* Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. Two things we ought to have and the third to pursue... Chase, you see, is the p
...more
Karen R
Jan 04, 2021 rated it it was amazing
Fortitude is not just about Dan Crenshaw's life and experiences as a Congressman and former Navy Seal wounded in combat who overcame the loss of an eye and Naval career. He speaks of the American culture today, how to keep a cool head in these times of outrage culture, entitlement and victimhood. He puts forth a practical roadmap to meet challenges and not give up hope. I have been listening to Dan’s podcast for quite some time and this book filled in some of the blanks of his life that I was cu ...more
Cav
The first line of the description of this book says: "Jordan Peterson's Twelve Rules for Life meets Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's Extreme Ownership." That's a pretty bold claim, and I was a bit skeptical starting this one after reading that...
Thankfully, the book can honestly be described this way. It was really good.
I have been following author Dan Crenshaw on social media, and via his numerous appearances on podcasts for a few years now.
Fortitude tells a bit of Crenshaw's story; his SEAL BUD
...more
Josh
Jul 23, 2020 rated it it was ok
I'll review this with the positives and then the negatives:

Positives:

Interesting perspective from a Congressman and Navy Seal about life's challenges and how to confront them instead of feeling outraged and victimized.

The book often reminded me of "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck," which is largely based on Buddhist philosophy and the understanding that suffering is a natural and normal part of life and accepting that as part of life and learning to live with a positive outlook rather than
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Dan
May 16, 2020 rated it liked it
Shelves: politics
I initially thought this was a self-help book, but I later realized this is a book on politics and attempts to be the one on political philosophy.

Crenshaw's writing is clear, straightforward, and to the point. He is a conservative who values loyalty, authority, integrity, heroism, individuality, freedom, personal accountability, and responsibility. He wants America to be great.

I appreciated his caution against emotion that includes outrage, panic, over-reactions. I also liked his view on person
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Jason
Aug 24, 2020 rated it it was amazing
Shelves: read-2020
Not the highest art book I have ever read, but I really appreciate what Dan Crenshaw tries to do with his book. He is trying to be a positive force in a negative time, and for that I gave the book a lot of credit.

It is about being a good citizen. Not caving in to victim mentality. Although a Libertarian/Republican, he writes the book with an invitation to both sides to be better. Overall, I enjoyed it and will purchase additional copies to give out to people.
Kevin Horgan
Nov 04, 2020 rated it it was amazing
I am a sucker for good marketing and I bought the book from an ad I saw that provided a signed copy at a very reasonable rate. I am delighted I bought the book.

I devoured it immediately and it is worthy of your time. Politics aside, this dude is not just a war hero, but a certified badass, having gone through US Navy SEAL BUDS Hell Week twice, because he broke his leg on the first pass.

Which should make him certifiable, but I’ll let you judge that.

Yes, the book is heavy on SEAL training and it g
...more
Hannah Morse
Jul 10, 2020 rated it really liked it
Fortitude was a great and encouraging book that had many inspirational and wonderful quotes from the author. It definitely showed what the modern society looks like; described as an “outrage culture” and having a victimhood ideology. Most importantly the author (Dan Crenshaw) did a great job explaining how the modern generation can change from its ways, developing a mental toughness and living with fortitude. Other things I found interesting was his story of how he became a SEAL and experience o ...more
Mary Knipp
Aug 04, 2020 rated it it was amazing
Best book I've read this year! ...more
Alicia
Aug 15, 2020 rated it really liked it
Representative Crenshaw from Texas is one of the few politicians with integrity. His book and personal experiences are inspiring!
Chad
Jul 01, 2020 rated it it was amazing
An excellent and timely read.
Blue Morse
Jun 03, 2020 rated it really liked it
“The road to mental toughness is paved with the knowledge that we don’t always do what is right, but we are willing to take responsibility for it, humbly correct it, and be stronger as a result. A mind that cannot bend to admit wrongdoing is easily broken. Don’t be breakable. Live with fortitude.”

A must read for every American, especially during these tumultuous times. Very practical and challenging.

My only critique is some of the foul language. As a military member I’m used to it, however I do
...more
Chris Hansen
Apr 09, 2020 rated it it was amazing  ·  review of another edition
The diagnosis and treatment plan for America. MUST READ

Crenshaw uses his personal experiences as a framework to discuss the American Ethos and its disintegration due to liberal ideologies of victimization and outrage. While many feel justified in the criticism of American culture and rage against perceived injustices Crenshaw reminds that the great experiment of The United Stares is based on individual liberties, not freedom, counterbalanced by individual responsibilities. A criticism of the pre
...more
Bob Wilson
Jun 13, 2020 rated it really liked it  ·  review of another edition
A good read from a young leader. While it can get “preachy” his basic premise is delivered well. I’d recommend this to anyone but especially to those who seek credible voices from across the political spectrum (hard to find nowadays, in my opinion). Be ready to think.
Crenshaw Is likely to be someone we hear more from in years to come. That could be a good thing.
Anna
It is great to hear from a real American hero like Dan Crenshaw. In his career as a Navy SEAL he developed character qualities that stood him in good stead when he was blinded by an IED. He partially recovered his sight in a risky operation and following a long recovery period, refused to be sidelined as disabled. He went back to school for a political science degree and became a US Representative for the State of Texas. He is a great example of the qualities of courage and resilience, and he no ...more
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Originally from the Houston area, his father’s career moved his family all over the world, including Colombia, where he attended high school and became fluent in Spanish. He is a graduate of Tufts University and Harvard Kennedy School of Government. As a SEAL he was deployed five times. On Dan’s third deployment he was hit by an IED blast that destroyed his right eye. Dan was medically retired in ...more

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“The basic message is this: If you’re losing your cool, you are losing. If you are triggered, it is because you allowed someone else to dictate your emotional state. If you are outraged, it is because you lack discipline and self-control. These are personal defeats, not the fault of anyone else. And each defeat shapes who you are as a person, and in the collective sense, who we are as a people. This book is about actively hardening your mind so that you can be the person you think you should be. It is about identifying who that person is in the first place, and taking responsibility for the self-improvement required to become them. It is about learning what it means to never quit. It is about learning to take a joke and giving others some charity when they make a bad one. It is about the importance of building a society of iron-tough individuals who can think for themselves, take care of themselves, and recognize that a culture characterized by grit, discipline, and self-reliance is a culture that survives.” 14 likes
“Government does not exist to end your suffering; it exists in order to create the proper structure, based on equality and justice, so that you may pursue your own happiness.” 9 likes
More quotes…