Belgian Fascist Party: Rex
#shorts
Fascism and Nazism was not only prevelant in Italy and Germany in the run-up and during the Second World War.
The Belgian Fascist Party, commonly known as Rex (or Rexist Party), was a political movement founded in 1935 by Léon Degrelle. The movement gained popularity during the 1930s, particularly among French-speaking Walloons.
Rex advocated for strong nationalism, anti-communism, and authoritarian rule. It embraced some elements of fascism, including paramilitary activities. Rex also had a strong anti-Semitic stance, echoing the sentiments of the Nazis
During World War II, Rex aligned itself with Nazi Germany and supported the occupation of Belgium. Léon Degrelle and other Rex members even volunteered to fight on the Eastern Front as part of the Waffen-SS.
Rex was officially disbanded in 1945, and its members faced various legal consequences. Degrelle escaped to Spain where he lived till his death.