Nazism in the USA: An Uncomfortable Reality of the 1930s

For many, the concept of Nazi training camps in America may seem far-fetched, conjuring images from dystopian novels or movies. However, during the 1930s, there were indeed individuals who supported Nazi ideologies, and their activities were more complex and nuanced than commonly believed.

Nazi Supporters in the United States

Were there Nazi training camps in America? The answer is multifaceted. While there were no official Nazi training camps in the sense typically seen in concentration or extermination camps, there were Americans who openly supported Nazi ideologies and even organized events that could be seen as promoting such beliefs. This raises a pertinent question: How could people have voted for Hitler?
To understand this phenomenon, it is valuable to ask the American great-grandparents of those who participated in these events.

Events and Organizations

German American Federation
One notable event took place at the German American Federation in Madison Square Gardens in New York in February 1939. At that time, the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany was well underway, and Germany was on the verge of invading Poland, marking the beginning of World War II. Despite the dire situation in Europe, the gathering in New York underscored the support some Americans had for Nazi ideologies.

George Washington: The First Fascist
Another thought-provoking claim is the assertion that George Washington was the first Fascist. While this may seem counterintuitive, it stems from a broader understanding of the political and ideological spectrum. Fascism, as a political ideology, carved out its place in American history, albeit in a perhaps less recognized form.

Parades and Celebrations

Parades in New York
In 1939, there were parades in New York that could be interpreted as supportive of Nazi ideologies. Celebrations of such events highlight the intertwining of cultural and political aspects during the 1930s. While these parades were often seen as promoting a sense of community and pride, they also tapped into a darker narrative prevalent in American society at the time.

Small-Town USA

Support for Fascism in Small-Towns
The significance of smaller, more isolated communities is also crucial. In Small-Town USA, it is equally important to note how some towns embraced and even celebrated elements of Nazi ideology. These communities provided a fertile ground for individuals to support and promote fascist beliefs, mirroring the broader national discourse.

Hitler's Birthday Celebrations

Los Angeles Celebrations
During Hitler’s birthday in Los Angeles in 1935, there were gatherings and events that could be seen as supportive of Hitler and Nazi Germany. These celebrations were not only private but public, indicating a level of openness that is sometimes overlooked in historical narratives.

Summer Camps and Mimicry

Summer Camps as Mimicry
Some have even suggested that there were camps, but more akin to summer camps. One example is Camp Nordland in New Jersey, which aimed to resemble the Nazi-style youth clubs of the time. While these camps were intended to be recreational, their structure and activities had underlying didactic purposes, subtly promoting fascist ideologies.

Conclusion

While there were no official Nazi training camps in the United States during the 1930s, there were certainly Nazi supporters and events that promoted fascist ideologies. The complexity of the situation underscores the need to revisit and question historical narratives. To truly understand the attitudes and beliefs of the time, it is imperative to ask the great-grandparents of those involved in these events. This approach may provide a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of historical perspectives.