Nazis Packed Madison Square Garden

American pro-Nazi groups held mass rallies at Madison Square Garden in 1934, 1935, and 1939. In 1934, the Friends of New Germany helped draw about 23,000 people to a swastika-filled rally that promoted an anti-Jewish boycott, while another pro-Nazi gathering followed in 1935. The German American Bund staged the most infamous rally in 1939, packing more than 20,000 people beneath a giant portrait of American president George Washington flanked by swastikas. About 100,000 protesters gathered outside while 1,700 police officers guarded the arena.

Previous Fact Next Fact