Dan Snow's History Hit
Fascism in America
Dec 6, 2024
Rachel Maddow, host of the Ultra podcast and MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show, delves into the unsettling rise of fascism in America during the 1920s and 30s. She explores how Nazism infiltrated U.S. politics, the role of propaganda, and the complex dynamics between democracy and isolationism. The discussion highlights lesser-known heroes who fought against fascist sentiments, including a veteran's covert operations exposing extremist groups, offering vital lessons from history that resonate in today’s political climate.
32:43
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of fascism in America in the 1920s and 30s involved significant propaganda efforts that undermined democratic ideals and influenced political offices.
- Grassroots activism by ordinary citizens was pivotal in resisting the fascist movement, highlighting the crucial role of individual efforts in safeguarding democracy.
Deep dives
The Rise of Fascism in 1930s America
In the 1930s and 1940s, a significant movement within the United States aimed to shift public sentiment towards fascism and away from democracy. High-profile figures like Charles Lindbergh became spokespeople for these pro-fascist sentiments, promoting views that applauded fascist ideologies as a solution to America's political issues. This period saw the rise of influential media figures, such as Father Charles Coughlin, who leveraged radio to reach millions and spread pro-fascist propaganda, even organizing paramilitary groups to further his agenda. Such movements revealed a startling level of admiration for Nazi Germany, with many Americans expressing sympathy for fascist principles, which lingered into the lead-up to World War II.
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