375. Hitler and the Mitford Sisters

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the life of Unity Mitford, a British socialite who became deeply involved with Nazism and Adolf Hitler. The discussion explores Mitford's family background, her fascination with fascism, and her close relationship with Hitler, examining whether her motivations stemmed from genuine ideological commitment or a desire for excitement and shock value. They discuss her actions, including her anti-Semitic statements and her role as a potential intermediary between Nazi Germany and British fascists, as well as the broader context of aristocratic attitudes towards fascism in Britain. The hosts also touch upon the enduring fascination with the Mitford sisters in popular culture and debate the extent to which their actions should be excused or condemned. The episode concludes by addressing the controversial theory that Unity Mitford may have carried Hitler's child.