

373. Oswald Mosley: Fascist Leader
63 snips Sep 27, 2023
Dive into the complex character of Oswald Mosley, a leader whose controversial persona shaped British fascism. Explore his political journey from MP to the founder of the British Union of Fascists, and discover how his experiences in World War I influenced his ambitions. The podcast contrasts Mosley's dynamic leadership with the conservatism of Stanley Baldwin, while also examining the rise and fall of his party. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted party game introduced by the hosts, adding humor to an otherwise serious topic.
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Spode as Mosley
- P.G. Woodhouse satirized Oswald Mosley as Roderick Spode in "The Code of the Woosters."
- Spode, a bogeyman figure, wore black shorts, mirroring Mosley's blackshirts.
British Fascism's Roots
- Despite Britain not losing WWI, several factors fueled fascism's rise.
- These included anti-Semitism, anxieties about Bolshevism, and distrust of democracy.
Mosley's Early Life
- Oswald Mosley, born in 1896 to Staffordshire landowners, grew up spoiled without a father figure.
- Known for impatience and a sense of entitlement, he excelled at Winchester and Sandhurst before WWI.