Feminine Fascism

This insightful exploration of women's roles in British fascism reveals the significant yet often overlooked contributions of women. Feminine Fascism offers a comprehensive historical analysis.

In Feminine Fascism, the author delves into the intriguing history of the British Fascisti, the first fascist movement in Britain, which was established by a woman in 1923. This groundbreaking work examines the notable role women played in the movement, particularly during the 1930s when a significant quarter of Sir Oswald Mosley's supporters were female. The author poses critical questions about the unique aspects of British fascism that attracted such substantial female support, shedding light on a largely overlooked area of historical study.

Gottlieb's extensive research draws on a wealth of sources, including government documents, contemporary pamphlets, newspapers, and speeches, alongside original interviews with individuals directly involved in the movement. This thorough investigation fills a crucial void in the historiography of British fascism, which has often neglected the contributions of women and the relevance of sexual politics and women's issues. The book's insights challenge prevailing narratives and encourage a re-evaluation of women's roles in fascist movements.

The new edition of Feminine Fascism features a preface that contextualizes the findings within the current political landscape, addressing the resurgence of populism and the increasing visibility of women in far-right leadership roles across Europe and North America. By examining how fascism has become normalized in contemporary fiction and political discourse, Gottlieb's work remains a vital resource for understanding the complexities of gender and ideology in the realm of fascism.