In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the complex and often overlooked history of British fascism. They discuss the common misconception that fascism is inherently un-British, challenging the notion by exploring the various historical, cultural, and social factors that made Britain susceptible to fascist ideologies in the early 20th century. They examine the roots of fascism in Britain, including medieval nostalgia, racial anxieties, anti-Semitism, and the impact of the Boer War, and highlight the role of key figures and movements, such as the Boy Scouts and various paramilitary groups. They also touch on the anxieties surrounding women's suffrage and the rise of flappers, as well as the influence of European fascism, particularly Mussolini's Italy, on British political thought. The hosts set the stage for a deeper exploration of British fascism in the interwar period, teasing future episodes on Oswald Mosley, the Mitford sisters, and the Battle of Cable Street.
