Synopses & Reviews
The past decade saw the rise of the British National Party, the country’s most successful ever far-right political movement, and the emergence of the anti-Islamic English Defence League. Taking aim at asylum seekers, Muslims, “enforced multiculturalism” and benefit “scroungers”, these groups have been working overtime to shift the blame for the nation’s ills onto the shoulders of the vulnerable. What does this extremist resurgence say about the state of modern Britain?
Drawing on archival research and extensive interviews with key figures, such as BNP leader Nick Griffin, Daniel Trilling shows how previously marginal characters from a tiny neo-Nazi subculture successfully exploited tensions exacerbated by the fear of immigration, the War on Terror and steepening economic inequality.
Mainstream politicians have consistently underestimated the far right in Britain while pursuing policies that give it the space to grow. Bloody Nasty People calls time on this complacency in an account that provides us with fresh insights into the dynamics of political extremism.
Review
"Racism and the rise of the far-right in Britain are often discussed but rarely understood. Daniel Trilling is an exception … his voice must be heard." Owen Jones
Review
"Daniel Trilling is a serious reporter who is not afraid to get close to a difficult subject and ask awkward questions." Yasmin Alibhai-Brown Independent
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"A cracking book that respectfully weaves together testimonies and stories – of people and places – with national political formations, examining them alongside the deeper economic and cultural questions posed by globalisation." Jon Cruddas
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"With the threat posed by prejudice and bigotry ever greater at a time of economic crisis, Trilling’s voice must be heard." New Statesman
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"Trilling does an excellent job of charting the social, political, cultural and economic conditions which the likes of Nick Griffin have at least temporarily managed to exploit ... a passionate plea for us all to be vigilant." Owen Jones
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"A compelling narrative ... Trilling challenges much conventional wisdom." Herald on Sunday
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"Pure pavement-pounding journalism." David Edgar Guardian
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"An instructive account of white extremism ... The book’s historical, action-packed narrative is underpinned with moral outrage." Time Out
Synopsis
The rise and fall of the British National Party and the English Defence League
About the Author
Daniel Trilling is an Assistant Editor at the New Statesman, where he has reported on Britain's far right since 2009. His work has also appeared in the Guardian, Sight and Sound and Frieze. He lives in London.