Who do you hate the most?

A.J.P Taylor's thesis that Hitler was fairly similar to other Western leaders in the early twentieth century and was merely an opportunist with desire for power is controversial to say the least, despite its many credibilities. Where his argument, in my opinion, falls down is that Hitler was a maniac in respect to his hatred for minorities he perceived not to be truly 'German', despite the fact he himself was Austrian born.

 

Hitler was the the (perceived) ray of light that the German people needed at a very dark time in their History. Germany had been completely humiliated by the French and inflation and unemployment was through the roof. Hitler with his enthusiastic and nationalistic speeches, gave the German people hope and got they began to support him. At the time when the German people were most vulnarable he was able to effectively brain wash them. The Final Solution was developed for some years but in the early 30's Hitler had managed to sway the German people's view on the Jews and the discrimination started then. The German people swallowed it all up, although did start getting sceptical in 34 when Hitler started to kill all of his political rivals (Night of the Long Knives).
Parts of Facism that unite the population behind the state, strengthen it and provide employment will always be appealing in times of turmoil. When the popultaion (as Jake says) are in turmoil they are more likely to vote or show support for extreme parties. France is an example of this, Facist parties have nearly gained power 3 times since WW2 each time when the country is struggling and the French are disillusined with how its run. They blame imigrants for taking their jobs etc and the Facists will stir this hatred up.

Facism is a very dangerous beast that has not been destroyed and in my opinion could well be getting stronger in the current European climate.

 

It already seems to be gathering pace on the streets of Greece. Fascist parties roaming the streets trying to gain followers. Why is this? Well, as has been stated by Si, fascism gains more credence to the general populace in times of crises, especially financial.