Dan Snow's History Hit Fascism in America
12 snips
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.
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Pro-Fascism Sentiment in the US
- Many Americans opposed joining World War II, some due to isolationism, but a significant portion admired Germany and fascism.
- The best-selling book in 1940, by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, promoted fascism as America's future.
Coughlin's Influence
- Charles Coughlin, a priest with a massive radio audience, promoted pro-fascist ideology and organized paramilitary cells.
- These cells aimed to overthrow the U.S. government violently, with some facing sedition charges.
Nazi Propaganda Campaign
- Nazi Germany ran a sophisticated propaganda campaign in the US, using front groups and direct mail.
- They even paid off two dozen members of Congress to spread propaganda using taxpayer money.
