The Failed Fascist Coup in Romania: 1938

The Context of the 1938 Fascist Coup in Romania

Romania's Political Landscape in 1938

In the late 1930s, Romania was experiencing significant political upheaval influenced by the rise of fascism in Europe. The country saw growing tensions between various political factions, with the **Far Right** gaining momentum. Political instability, economic issues, and the aggressive rise of fascism worldwide made Romania a hotbed for radical political movements.

The Role of the Iron Guard

The **Iron Guard**, Romania's leading fascist organization, aimed to overthrow the government and establish a dictatorship. This paramilitary group, known for its extreme nationalism and antisemitism, sought to use violence and intimidation to impose their ideologies onto Romanian politics. The Iron Guard's philosophy and practices were heavily influenced by European fascist movements, making them a significant force to be reckoned with.

The Coup Attempt and Its Aftermath

The Coup's Initiation

On November 8, 1938, the Iron Guard orchestrated a coup against the government led by **King Carol II**. The coup was fueled by the belief that they could seize power swiftly due to widespread dissatisfaction with the monarchy's policies. However, their plans were met with staunch resistance from the military and police forces loyal to the king, who were prepared to defend the government.

The Aftermath of the Failed Coup

The failed coup was a crucial turning point in Romania's political history. Following the attempt, King Carol II took decisive action against the Iron Guard, leading to their criminalization and the arrest of many of its members. The aftermath strengthened the king's authoritarian grip on the country, further marginalizing the right-wing factions.

Fun Fact

A Fascinating Tidbit about the Iron Guard

Interestingly, the Iron Guard had a charismatic leader, **Corneliu Zelea Codreanu**, who popularized the slogan "For God and Country". His oratory skills and fervent nationalism attracted many followers, even before the coup attempt.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Romania's Political History

To delve deeper into the complexities of **Romanian history**, consider exploring **Histoire de la Roumanie** by **Dan Berindei** or **Romania: A Cultural History** by **John A. F. O’Connell**. These texts provide invaluable insight into the tumultuous events of the 20th century in Romania.