Letter: Is Tennessee marching toward fascism?
To the Editor:
According to The American Heritage Dictionary, 5th edition, fascism is “1. a system of government marked by centralization of authority under a dictator, a capitalist economy subject to stringent governmental controls, violent suppression of the opposition, and typically a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism. 2. Political philosophy or movement based on advocating such a system of government, 3. Oppressive, dictatorial control.”
According to The Cambridge Dictionary, fascism is “a political system based on a very powerful leader, state control of social and economic life, and extreme pride in country and race with no expression of political disagreement allowed.”
Fascism flourished in Italy under Mussolini from 1921-1943. It has resurfaced in Italy with the election of an avowed admirer of Mussolini, Giorgia Meloni, as head of state. It is easy to find articles about how she is running the country of Italy.
Fascist groups are making headway in other countries also. This country has reason to keep an eye on them and to wonder about moves toward a fascist form of government in the U.S.
Fascist sympathizers have always been present in this country. A group of them even tried to oust Franklin Roosevelt from the White House, according to “The Plot to Seize the White House” by Jules Archer.
The “control of social and economic life” is a most troubling aspect of fascism. One has to wonder if the Tennessee legislature is not moving in this direction with the laws it passes which take away rights from Tennesseans.
Virginia M. Jones
Oak Ridge
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Letter: Is Tennessee marching toward fascism?
