Keen On America

The charming gay racist who invented modern American conservatism: Sam Tanenhaus on William F. Buckley's absurdly implausible contradictions

Jul 27, 2025
Sam Tanenhaus, author of "Buckley, The Life and Revolution That Changed America," dives into the complexities of William F. Buckley, the media-savvy founder of modern American conservatism. He reveals shocking truths about Buckley’s family's secret funding of segregationist newspapers, a revelation that even shocked his son. Tanenhaus explores the paradox of Buckley's charismatic personal life versus his toxic political beliefs, highlighting the contradictions that have shaped America’s conservative landscape, echoing into today’s political climate.
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INSIGHT

Buckley's Charming Contradiction

  • William F. Buckley balanced personal charm with reactionary, divisive politics, making him a complex and contradictory figure.
  • This duality reflects the broader American struggle to reconcile likability with toxic political beliefs.
ANECDOTE

Notorious Debate With Gore Vidal

  • Buckley engaged in a famous heated TV debate with Gore Vidal where Buckley used homophobic insults.
  • This exchange highlighted questions around Buckley's suppressed sexuality and public persona.
INSIGHT

Secret Family Segregation Support

  • Buckley's family secretly funded segregationist newspapers supporting White Citizens Councils.
  • He kept this family's involvement secret publicly, revealing deep racial conservatism roots.
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