The Iron Guard

Definition

The Iron Guard was a far-right political movement in Romania, active primarily during the 1920s and 1930s, known for its nationalist and fascist ideologies. This group aimed to establish a Christian-oriented, ethnically homogeneous Romanian state and is often associated with violent anti-Semitic and anti-communist actions. The Iron Guard's blend of mysticism, nationalism, and authoritarianism made it a key player in the rise of fascism and totalitarianism in Eastern Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Iron Guard was founded in 1927 as the 'Legion of the Archangel Michael' before adopting the name 'Iron Guard' in the early 1930s.
2. The movement gained popularity due to its strong anti-communist stance, especially during the rise of socialism in Europe.
3. The Iron Guard participated in numerous violent acts, including assassinations and riots, targeting Jews, communists, and political adversaries.
4. In 1941, the Iron Guard briefly aligned with Nazi Germany but faced internal conflict leading to its suppression by the Romanian government.
5. The group’s ideology included a mix of Romanian nationalism, Christian orthodoxy, and fascism, which appealed to many Romanians disillusioned by economic instability and political corruption.

Review Questions

• How did the ideologies of the Iron Guard reflect broader trends of fascism and totalitarianism in Europe during the early 20th century?
  • The ideologies of the Iron Guard mirrored broader trends of fascism and totalitarianism by promoting extreme nationalism, anti-communism, and anti-Semitism. Their vision for a homogeneous Romanian state was similar to other fascist movements that sought to eliminate perceived threats to national identity. The Iron Guard's use of violence and propaganda paralleled tactics used by other European fascist parties to consolidate power and suppress dissent.
• Evaluate the impact of Corneliu Zelea Codreanu's leadership on the growth and influence of the Iron Guard within Romanian society.
  • Corneliu Zelea Codreanu's charismatic leadership was crucial in shaping the Iron Guard's identity and expanding its influence. His emphasis on a mystical vision of Romanian nationalism resonated with many people disillusioned by the political landscape. Codreanu's ability to mobilize youth through rallies and paramilitary activities allowed the movement to gain significant grassroots support, even leading to a brief alignment with government powers during World War II, which further legitimized their presence.
• Analyze the reasons for the decline of the Iron Guard's influence in Romania following World War II and its implications for Romanian politics.
  • The decline of the Iron Guard after World War II can be attributed to multiple factors including internal divisions, brutal suppression by both Romanian authorities and Soviet influence, as well as changing public sentiment towards fascist ideologies. The post-war environment led to a crackdown on extremist movements as Romania transitioned towards communism. This shift not only dismantled the Iron Guard but also shaped Romanian politics by silencing nationalist voices, setting a precedent for oppressive governance that characterized subsequent communist rule.

Related terms

Legionnaires: Members of the Iron Guard, known for their commitment to the movement's ideology and participation in various violent acts against political opponents.

Corneliu Zelea Codreanu: The founder and leader of the Iron Guard, who combined elements of Romanian nationalism with a strong anti-Semitic agenda.

National Legionary State: A short-lived regime established by the Iron Guard in Romania during World War II, marked by its efforts to impose totalitarian control and suppress opposition.