The Christian Front: Nazis in Copley Square

On January 13, 1940, FBI agents unexpectedly raided the homes and offices of seventeen members of the Christian Front, confiscating firearms, ammunition, and homemade explosives. These actions were carried out following charges made by J. Edgar Hoover claiming that the group was plotting to incite a revolution and establish a "temporary dictatorship" with the aim of eradicating Jewish and Communist influence in the United States.

In "Nazis of Copley Square," Charles Gallagher presents an important yet overlooked chapter in the history of the American far right. The men of the Christian Front saw themselves as warriors on a holy mission to cleanse the nation spiritually, and they were not alone in their beliefs. The origins of the Front can be traced back to influential Catholic movements such as the Mystical Body of Christ and Catholic Action that were widespread in the early 20th century. The group's anti-Semitic views were fueled by sermons delivered on Sundays and by lay leaders who openly embraced fascist and Nazi ideologies.

Gallagher delves into the evolution of the Christian Front, the covert intelligence operations that involved multiple countries in sabotaging its activities, and the prominent political and religious figures who turned a blind eye to the group's agenda. "Nazis of Copley Square" paints a disturbing picture of how faith can be twisted into violence and serves as a cautionary tale for those seeking to combat the resurgence of extremist right-wing beliefs in contemporary society.

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