Political Extremism

Political Extremism

1. British Union of Fascists

   • Mosley formed the BUF following a visit to fascist Italy
     • Mosley used his ability as an orator
       • Gave hundreds of speeches around the country
         • Published three books and wrote many articles
   • Gained support from individuals such as Lord Rothermere
     • By 1934, 50000 members
       • Strongest support in London and in northern cities
         • Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds
       • Never became a mass movement
         • 1935, members had declined to 5000
         • No MPs or local councillors elected
         • Violence in Olympia Hall in 1934
           • Lost the support of Rothermere
           • Battle of Cable Street, 1936
             • Another example of violence
   • Typical members
     • Young working-class men disillusioned with traditional political parties
       • Tired of limited effort to tackle unemployment
     • Some traditional Labour supporters
       • Disillusioned with Labour in 1931
     • Lost support due to ideals and racial policies of Nazi Germany