Part One: George Lincoln Rockwell: The Most Racist American in History
Mar 12, 2019
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In this discussion, Cody Johnston, a comedian and political commentator, and Katy Stoll, a writer and advocate for social justice, dive into the unsettling life of George Lincoln Rockwell, the founder of the American Nazi Party. They unravel his bizarre journey from aspiring artist to leading extremist, examining the dark legacy he left behind. The conversation touches on his outrageous tactics for notoriety, his absurd followers, and the dangerous seeds he planted in American racism, all while weaving in humor to tackle this grim subject.
George Lincoln Rockwell's upbringing steeped in racist ideologies played a crucial role in shaping his extremist beliefs and actions.
His founding of the American Nazi Party in 1959 highlighted a deliberate strategy to gain legitimacy through provocative media engagement.
Rockwell's complex relationships with various radical groups reflected his adaptability within the racial politics of his time, influencing future hate movements.
Deep dives
The Rise of George Lincoln Rockwell
George Lincoln Rockwell, a pivotal figure in the history of American fascism, was born in 1918 and grew up in a tumultuous family environment. His upbringing involved significant exposure to racist ideologies from both his parents and relatives, which he later internalized. As a teenager, he exhibited troubling behavior, expressing resentment towards women, indicative of a broader pattern of emotional and psychological issues that defined his later life. Rockwell’s service in World War II sparked a complex mix of nationalism and anti-communism that shifted into outright racism, culminating in his embrace of Nazi ideologies.
The Formation of the American Nazi Party
In 1959, Rockwell founded the American Nazi Party (ANP), deliberately choosing to identify openly as a Nazi to garner attention and legitimacy within the far-right movement. His strategy was heavily influenced by the methods of fascist and communist movements, focusing on gaining notoriety through public demonstrations and controversial appearances. By making provocative statements and leveraging media coverage, he aimed to recruit followers who resonated with his message of racial superiority and separation. This period also marked the beginning of his troubling relationship with various hate groups and his foundational role in the emergence of neo-Nazism in the United States.
Implementing Propaganda and Racism
Rockwell employed a range of propaganda techniques designed to normalize extreme racist rhetoric and Holocaust denial, setting the stage for future hate groups. His writings included pamphlets and literature that utilized crass humor to disguise hate-filled messages, reflecting a method aimed at appealing to disaffected individuals. This tactic not only allowed him to spread his ideology but also to present himself as a victim of violence and censorship, a narrative that resonated with a segment of the American populace skeptical of mainstream media. As a result, he was able to garner both financial support and a small cadre of followers who shared his extremist views.
Rockwell's Relationship with Other Extremist Movements
Interestingly, Rockwell sought to build alliances with other groups, such as the Nation of Islam, due to shared interests in racial separation, despite their contrasting racial ideologies. During a 1961 rally, he publicly endorsed Malcolm X, demonstrating a keen understanding of the power dynamics at play in racial discourse. This relationship illustrated his willingness to engage with various radical movements to further his agenda, showcasing his adaptability in a shifting political climate. His actions underscore the complexity of racial politics in America and highlight his role in influencing other hate movements that emerged in subsequent decades.
The Legacy of George Lincoln Rockwell
Rockwell's strategies and ideologies left a lasting impact on the landscape of American hate groups and far-right extremism. His ability to combine provocative media tactics with grassroots mobilization helped lay the groundwork for future neo-Nazi and white supremacist movements. Even after his death, his ideologies continued to resonate with various extremist factions, influencing a myriad of groups that would follow in his footsteps. Rockwell's legacy serves as a stark reminder of the cyclical nature of hate and the enduring struggle against fascism and racism in American society.
