Fascist Modernization, 1999–2005

Abstract

Shaffer examines the British National Party’s modernization efforts with its local election victories, search for support and image rebranding. In addition, he explores the party’s international efforts, including the American Friends of the BNP, and association with European extremists such as Jean-Marie Le Pen. Meanwhile, the BNP worked to distance itself from more radical wings of the fascist movement and launched Great White Records, which recorded and promoted folk music with nationalistic and xenophobic themes. Shaffer argues that while its music outreach proved largely unsuccessful and was a financial loss, the party continued to make electoral gains.