62 Group

The 62 Group was a militant broad-based coalition of anti-fascists in London. It was set up in 1962 largely in response to the resurgence of fascism in Britain at the time, and particularly the creation of Colin Jordan's Nationalist Socialist Movement. It used violence against the remnants of Oswald Mosley's Union Movement, the original British National Party, and the emerging National Front, as well as the NSM.[1]

Membership

The Group was led by Harry Bidney, a Soho night club manager and managed day-to-day by hardman enforcer, Paul Nathan who was known for his tough image and wild temper. [2] It was modeled after the earlier 43 Group, which had also included Bidney as a member. Formal membership was only open to those who were Jewish, but the Group worked with people from other communities including many Irish and Black activists.

Another notable member was Gerry Gable, who would later create the magazine Searchlight.[3][1]

Activities

The Group's tactics consisted of direct action against those groups it believed were organising violence against minority groups, which sometimes resulted in violent confrontations. On one occasion in July 1962 this led to a riot in London's Trafalgar Square, when Jordan tried to address a crowd while standing in front of a large banner which read: "Free Britain from Jewish Control".[4] It also used intelligence, including informers within the fascist groups.[3][1][5]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 Gerry Gable "Neo-Nazi leader Colin Jordan's legacy," The Jewish Chronicle Online (April 22, 2009). Retrieved 17-10-2013.
  2. ↑ Walker, Martin (1977). The National Front. Fontana. p. 172. ISBN 9780006348245.
  3. 1 2 Gerry Gable “Standing up to fascism: A celebration of the 43 Group,” HOPE not hate (Celebrating Britain’s diverse society) (Monday, 16 February 2009). Retrieved 17-10-2013.
  4. ↑ The BNP, anti-fascism today and the Jewish community, CST blog (Protecting the Jewish Community), (October 5th, 2010). Retrieved 17-10-2013.
  5. ↑ Gerry Gable, “Obituary: Colin Jordan, Key figure in the postwar British fascist movement,” The Guardian (Monday 13 April 2009). Retrieved 17-10-2013.


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