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The Plot to Seize the White House: The Shocking True Story of the Conspiracy to Overthrow FDR

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'The Plot to Seize the White House' by Jules Archer delves into the shocking true story of a conspiracy to overthrow FDR, led by wealthy plutocrats aiming to install a fascist government in the United States. Through a detailed examination of General Smedly Butler's heroic exploits and courageous stand against corruption and hypocrisy, the book serves as a warning against the dangers of wealth-driven corruption and criminality. Archer's narrative highlights Butler's unwavering commitment to upholding The Bill of Rights and his pivotal role in exposing the fascist plot to seize power.

Butler's involvement in the coup, his testimony at a secret congressional committee meeting, and the subsequent investigative journalism that uncovered the truth behind the conspiracy form a riveting storyline that showcases Butler's resilience and determination to thwart the sinister plans of the plotters. Archer masterfully weaves together historical events, Butler's military career, and the clash between power-hungry elites and the principles of democracy, creating a compelling narrative that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is engaging and well-supported by research, although some dramatization may exist.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on a conspiracy involving wealthy individuals attempting to use military power to overthrow the FDR administration, reflecting deep societal divides during the Great Depression.

Setting:

The story unfolds during the Great Depression, with significant events occurring across various historical locations.

Pacing:

Overall, the pacing is engaging, though there are sections that may feel repetitive.
Perspiring on the raw-wood platform in the broiling heat of a July day in Washington, Major General Smedley Darlington Butler, retired, took off his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and opened his collar....

Notes:

The book discusses a conspiracy to overthrow FDR during the Great Depression.
Smedley Butler, a respected general, was approached to lead a military coup.
The conspirators were wealthy individuals who opposed FDR's economic policies.
They feared that FDR would take the U.S. off the gold standard, devaluing their wealth.
Butler exposed the plot after pretending to cooperate with the conspirators.
He was angered by the associates of the plotters who supported fascist regimes like Mussolini's and Hitler's.
Butler's military career included commanding Marines in conflicts in Cuba, Haiti, China, and the Philippines.
He fought for better treatment of war veterans and criticized the U.S. military's engagement in foreign countries.
Archer’s book argues that democracy requires constant vigilance to prevent its erosion into fascism.
The plot was unveiled during a congressional investigation, which the press initially ridiculed but later acknowledged.
Butler received the Congressional Medal of Honor twice but refused other awards, believing his men were the true heroes.
The book highlights the tension between democracy and corporate power in America.

From The Publisher:

Many people might not know that in 1933, a group of wealthy industrialists—working closely with groups like the K.K.K. and the American Liberty League—planned to overthrow the U.S. government and run F.D.R. out of office in a fascist coup. Readers will learn of their plan to turn unhappy war veterans into American “brown shirts," depose F.D.R., and stop the New Deal. They asked Medal of Honor recipient and Marine Major General Smedley Darlington Butler to work with them and become the “first American Caesar." Fortunately, Butler was a true patriot. Instead of working for the fascist coup, he revealed the plot to journalists and to Congress.

Archer writes a compelling account of a ploy that would have turned FDR into fascist puppet, threatened American democracy and changed the course of history. This book not only reveals the truth behind this shocking episode in history, but also tells the story of the man whose courage and bravery prevented it from happening.

Skyhorse Publishing, as well as our Arcade imprint, are proud to publish a broad range of books for readers interested in history-books about World War II, the Third Reich, Hitler and his henchmen, the JFK assassination, conspiracies, the American Civil War, the American Revolution, gladiators, Vikings, ancient Rome, medieval times, the old West, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.

About the Author:

Jules Archer was one of the most respected names in nonfiction for young people. During his lifetime he published over seventy books, which have been translated into twelve languages throughout the world.

 
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