Timesuck with Dan Cummins Short Suck #47: The Business Plot - When Bankers Tried to Topple the White House
Dec 12, 2025
Explore the shocking tale of The Business Plot, where powerful bankers allegedly sought a fascist coup against FDR. Discover Smedley Butler, the decorated Marine turned activist, who faced suspicious bribes and sinister proposals. Delve into attempts to rally veterans for a government takeover and the creepy connections to European fascist movements. Hear about the congressional testimony that revealed the conspirators but left them unnamed, and the mysterious death of a key player that adds intrigue to this historic conspiracy.
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Decorated Marine's Global Campaigns
- Smedley Butler served 33 years in the Marines and fought in conflicts from the Spanish-American War to World War I.
- He earned two Medals of Honor and became a celebrated but reflective war hero after witnessing U.S. interventions abroad.
Persistent Recruitment By A Bond Salesman
- Gerald C. McGuire repeatedly courted Butler to speak for business-backed causes, offering cash and access to the American Legion.
- Butler rejected the offers, sensing the proposals hid a deeper, dangerous agenda.
Fascist Playbook Imported From Europe
- McGuire pitched a paramilitary plan modeled on European fascist veteran groups to pressure the U.S. government.
- The intended goal was to halt Roosevelt's New Deal and install an authoritarian executive.
