Stephen Dorril, a former senior journalism lecturer and author of "Blackshirt: Sir Oswald Mosley and British Fascism," dissects the controversial figure of Oswald Mosley. They delve into the rise of British fascism, influenced by anti-Semitic rhetoric and European connections. Dorril explores Mosley's charismatic yet flawed personality, his shifts from Tory roots to Labour ideals, and the impact of key events like the Battle of Cable Street. The conversation also touches on the movement's decline and the complexities surrounding Mosley's legacy.
Oswald Mosley's upbringing instilled a complex blend of charisma and narcissism, shaping his later ambitions and ideologies in British politics.
His disillusionment with traditional politics post-World War I led Mosley to establish the British Union of Fascists, merging nationalism with radical economic intervention.
The Battle of Cable Street exemplified both the vulnerabilities of the BUF and a moment of unexpected membership growth following Mosley's restraint against anti-fascist violence.
Deep dives
Oswald Mosley's Early Influences
Oswald Mosley emerged from a privileged background, exhibiting characteristics shaped by his family dynamics. His father was a charming yet unreliable figure, instilling in him a sense of action, while his mother played a pivotal role in forming his narcissistic personality. Raised within the landed gentry, Mosley’s early political ideology was traditional Toryism, alongside a degree of anti-Semitism prevalent in upper-class circles, although he did not manifest those views during his youth. The influence of his affluent upbringing, coupled with a childhood filled with leisure activities, created a foundation for his later political ambitions and ideologies.
Radicalization After World War I
Mosley's experiences during World War I significantly transformed his political outlook. Serving as a pilot, he witnessed the traumatic realities of war, which shaped his desire to prevent future conflicts and seek governmental reform. His disillusionment with the post-war political environment, particularly his disappointment with the Conservative Party's inability to implement impactful social change, led him to more radical ideologies, combining nationalism and economic intervention. This journey culminated in his transition away from traditional party politics as he pursued a movement-oriented approach to instigate the reforms he deemed necessary.
Formation of the British Union of Fascists
As Mosley distanced himself from the Labour Party due to its limitations, he established the British Union of Fascists (BUF) during a time of political upheaval in Britain. His vision for the BUF integrated elements of Italian fascism while incorporating nationalist and anti-Semitic sentiments, which he initially approached with caution. As he sought funding and support, Mosley turned to various European fascist movements, establishing connections with influential figures in Italy and Germany. This blending of ideologies became the driving force behind the BUF’s campaigns and the militarization of their followers.
The Battle of Cable Street and Its Aftermath
The Battle of Cable Street in October 1936 marked a significant moment for the BUF and showcased both its vulnerabilities and its support. While the expected confrontation between Mosley’s followers and anti-fascist groups was largely characterized by police actions rather than direct conflict with fascists, the event nonetheless intensified political tensions. Surprisingly, Mosley’s refusal to engage in violent confrontations and subsequent backing down instigated a surge in BUF membership, as some viewed this restraint as responsible. However, this period also highlighted the broader struggles of the BUF to maintain momentum amidst growing opposition and public skepticism toward their methods.
Mosley's Decline and Later Years
Following World War II, Mosley faced significant challenges in regaining political relevance. Interned during the war due to concerns over his potential influence, he attempted to reframe his ideology in the post-war context by emphasizing a unifying European nationalism against external threats. However, his efforts to revive a fascist movement were met with limited success, as the British public distanced themselves from his archaic ideas and anti-Semitic rhetoric. Ultimately, Mosley faded from significant political life, attempting to re-enter the scene during various social upheavals but failing to resonate with a changing political landscape.
This is the story of British fascism seen through the life of its leader, Oswald Mosley. We explore his charismatic yet deeply flawed personality, his relationship with European fascists, and the eventual decline of his movement.
With us is Stephen Dorril, a former senior lecturer in journalism at Huddersfield University and the author of 'Blackshirt: Sir Oswald Mosley and British Fascism'. He joins us for an in-depth look at this complex and controversial figure.
Produced and edited by James Hickmann.
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