Drawing inspiration from her research for the popular podcast Ultra, Rachel Maddow traces the ascent of an intense strain of American authoritarianism that has thrived on the far-right fringes of our political landscape for nearly a century. Before and during World War II, a covert network flooded the nation with disinformation, aiming to undermine the U.S. war effort, convince Americans of a natural alliance with the Axis, and erode confidence in elected leaders. This sophisticated, well-funded campaign sought to destabilize democratic institutions, foster antisemitism, and ultimately overthrow the U.S. government, establishing authoritarian rule.
Operating in tandem with this effort was an ultra-right paramilitary movement that amassed bombs and weapons, preparing for mass murder and violent insurrection.
Simultaneously, a small group of exceptional activists and journalists worked diligently to expose the scheme, shedding light on it as it unfolded. In 1941, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a direct assault, identifying key plotters, uncovering their backers, and prosecuting dozens in federal court.
However, the plan did not unfold as expected.
While history may remember this scheme as the work of fringe figures, in reality, it involved influential elected officials. Their interference in law enforcement efforts against the plot unveils a dark narrative of the rule of law bending and ultimately breaking under political intimidation.
The repercussions of this legal system failure have extended throughout our history for decades. Yet, the courageous efforts of activists, journalists, prosecutors, and ordinary citizens who sought to expose the insurrectionists offer a profoundly resonant and relevant tale for our disquieting times.