This video involves the political prowess of Ft. Charles Coughlin, a Catholic Priest, who originally supported the Roosevelt Administration, became an extreme opponent for the fact that the President did not go far enough in social justice. He became a national figure and was seen by the media as the public voice for the catholic community of America. Coughlin’s newspaper became so large that millions read it, and the only reason for its eventual downfall was the censorship of ant-war propaganda by the Roosevelt Administration. The video showcases a romanticized version of the “Radio Priest”. Giving a view of him being a larger than life but humbled man who only wishes to install the faith of God into the American routine. Playing the victim draws sympathy and attention to the enemies of his extremely radical social justice ideology, so radical that even the diabolical (as insinuated in the video) couldn’t support Ft. Coughlin anymore
The political romanticism of American politicians running for important political office has become a mainstream problem ever since the founding of America. The nation started with very strong, competent, and likable figures. From the likes of George Washington to James Monroe, the United States has always had a cult of personality among followers of specific people selling a brand.
The Marquis de Lafayette, a French Liberal stated that “Humanity has won, Liberty has a nation” causing the extreme romanticism of the United States, and every romantic nation must have a romantic hero. George Washington became the most popular name during the late 1700s, Thomas Jefferson had a cult of personality for his larger than life attitude, and James Monroe was seen as a peacekeeper of the solemn United States.
You can see it even today, especially with former President Donald Trump, Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and many more.
Questions-
- What are the damaging effects romanticizing a politician that you don’t know personally can have on political partisanship in the United States?
- Does a cult of personality have a negative effect on the politician themselves?
- Is it easy to admire a figure so much so that you become a devout follower of their policies, causing you to change your own ideology to fit theirs? If so, why?
- Can you think of a recent case of romanticization in the Political realm? How did they become popular? How large is their social media presence?
Your post is very interesting Koen! The “romanticization” of celebrities is seen everywhere especially now with social media being such a strong proponent. It is interesting in the video how it talks about the power of suggestion. It mentioned how there was concern for people not wanting to disagree with Father Coughlin for fear of going to hell. I think another aspect this video embodies is the relationship between Church and State. It would be interesting to explore that more, maybe add it into your discussion questions? Overall, great find, and a wonderful blog post!
I agree with Teresa that your topic is very creative! Some have noted that there can be a “cult” of the Founding Fathers, creating the expectation that they were so wise we can’t question them. Other foundational figures like President Lincoln also fall into this category. I think one way of demystifying historical figures is to read biographies of them and try to understand them as people.