Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast cover image

Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

WITHpod Live with Chris Hayes and Rachel Maddow

Nov 24, 2023
Special guest Rachel Maddow joins Chris Hayes for a fascinating conversation all about what we can do to save American democracy, the historical context of American democracy including slavery, the evolution of disinformation and the role of media, the dark influence of Henry Ford and his impact on anti-Semitism, exploring fascism and the paradox of popular support, the erosion of democracy and the confusing nature of authoritarianism, the visual grammar and rhetoric of authoritarian movements, and how the speakers find engaging topics for their show.
01:38:57

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Fascism and anti-Semitism had pronounced roots and support in the United States, demonstrated by figures like Father Coughlin, Henry Ford, and publications like The Dearborn Independent.
  • The power of mass media in shaping public opinion and influencing fascist movements in the United States is explored, highlighting figures like Father Coughlin and Lawrence Dennis.

Deep dives

The Persistence of Anti-Semitism and Fascist Sympathizers in the United States

The podcast episode explores the historical presence of anti-Semitism and fascist sympathizers in the United States. It highlights figures like Father Coughlin and Henry Ford, who preached anti-Semitism and espoused fascist ideologies to millions through their radio shows, newspapers, and speeches. The discussion delves into the role of American publications like The Dearborn Independent and Lawrence Dennis' writings in spreading fascist propaganda and ideologies. It also reveals how elements of American racism and laws influenced the Nazis' racial nationalism and anti-Semitism, as studied by German lawyers like Hunrick Krieger at the University of Arkansas. The episode emphasizes that fascism and anti-Semitism were not solely European phenomena but had pronounced roots and support in the United States.

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