American Far-Right Draws Inspiration from Historical Fascists

The influence of authoritarian figures from the past is resurfacing within segments of the American far-right, particularly as some activists express admiration for Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. This fascination raises questions about the ideological connections between contemporary leaders and historical fascists, despite the passage of time since Franco’s death in 1975.

A notable aspect of this trend is the relationship between the American right, symbolized by Donald Trump, and European far-right movements. Political figures across Europe, including Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, continue to seek alignment with Trump’s ideologies, even as his influence appears to wane. This dynamic creates a complex interplay that is not easily deciphered, with leaders such as Elon Musk attempting to engage with European politics, often with questionable results.

Recent commentary by writer Dan Kaufman in the New York Review of Books highlights the rise of admiration for Franco among certain American right-wing factions. Kaufman reviews Paul Preston’s book, “Architects of Terror,” which details the brutalities of Franco’s regime while hinting at contemporary resonance with current political movements. His observations suggest that the authoritarian tactics employed during Franco’s rule are being revisited by modern American conservatives.

Historical parallels between Trump and 20th-century fascists like Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini have been discussed widely. The charisma and provocative style of Trump evoke comparisons to Mussolini’s theatrical oratory, while the broader authoritarian tendencies resonate with Hitler’s controversial rise to power. Kaufman notes that while Trump may not embody the same level of intellectualism as Mussolini, there are discernible similarities in their approaches to leadership.

The enduring legacy of Franco poses questions about the nature of admiration among American conservatives. Franco’s regime is characterized by severe repression of dissent and an ideological framework that sought to maintain a homogenous cultural identity. As Kaufman indicates, this desire for a return to a perceived order resonates with some factions within the contemporary American right.

Interestingly, Franco’s historical context offers insight into the motives driving today’s far-right movements. The Spanish dictator’s ability to navigate between various political landscapes while suppressing opposition illustrates a model that some modern-day politicians may seek to emulate. The phrase “Generalissimo Francisco Franco is still dead,” a recurring joke from Saturday Night Live in the 1970s, reflects how Franco was once a distant figure in American cultural consciousness, yet his legacy is now being reexamined for its potential applications in today’s political climate.

Furthermore, the long-standing admiration for Franco among right-wing intellectuals, dating back to figures like William F. Buckley Jr., has persisted throughout the decades. Buckley characterized Franco as an “authentic national hero,” illustrating how narratives surrounding authoritarianism can be reinterpreted to fit modern political agendas.

The complexity of Franco’s rule and its implications for contemporary politics cannot be overstated. While his regime is often viewed through the lens of European history, the tactics employed to suppress dissent and enforce ideological conformity hold relevance for understanding the current landscape of right-wing politics in America. The persistent admiration for such figures raises critical questions about the direction of political discourse and the values embraced by those on the far-right.

As the American political landscape evolves, the historical examples set by figures like Franco serve as both cautionary tales and inspirational models for those seeking to assert control over dissenting voices. This relationship between past and present highlights the cyclical nature of political ideologies, where echoes of historical fascism may resurface in contemporary movements.

In summary, as admiration for figures like Franco gains traction among certain factions of the American far-right, it is essential to analyze the implications of this trend. Understanding the historical context and the motivations behind such admiration is crucial for comprehending the evolving dynamics of political power and authority in the United States and beyond.