Let’s follow the most notorious Mitford sister into adulthood! In this episode, we explore how Unity Mitford transformed from every teacher’s nightmare into a radicalized devotee of the far right.
We start with the strange paradox of the Mitford bond: how could Unity maintain a fierce love especially for her sister Jessica Mitford while they were diametrically opposed on every political conviction? We also peek into her unsuccessful and short stints at schools and the desperate hopes her parents pinned on sending her to school.
Then, things get juicy. We dive into Unity’s "coming out" into society, addressing those scandalous sexual rumors and the reality of her private life. But instead of finding a husband, Unity preferred to shock society which didn’t matter that much, because her sister Diana’s high-profile breakup spoiled the social season anyway. And while Unity and Diana bonded over rule breaking, they both spiral toward the British Union of Fascists.
Finally, we track the moment that would be Unity’s dark enlightenment: her radicalisation at the 1933 Nuremberg Rally. This wasn't just a trip abroad; it was the birth of an obsession.
Get ready for the story of how a British debutante decided her true "coming out" belonged in the heart of Nazi Germany. Next step? Meeting the Führer himself.
Chapters:
0:00:00 Intro & Recap
0:02:35 Unity’s love for her sisters against all their convictions
0:06:06 Unity’s unsuccessful schooling & her favourite governess
0:13:01 The parent’s hope with schooling
0:18:01 Unity’s coming out, a juicy rumour, and her sexual life
0:27:25 Diana’s break-up spoiling the ball season
0:32:00 Unity, Diana, Decca, their politics & the dawn of British fascism
0:36:56 Unity’s radicalisation - the Nuremberg Parteitag 1933
0:44:45 Wrap & Outlook (Hitler calling!)
You can also find and follow us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@raidersofthelostarchive_pod
And you can email us: raidersofthelostarchive.pod@gmail.com
Do you want to organise a Team Event with Women + Health in London?
Or maybe you’re interested in our services and our ethos?
Look us up online: www.womenandhealth.org.uk
Tags: Unity Mitford, Mitford Sisters, Diana Mitford, Jessica Mitford, British Union of Fascists, Nuremberg Rally, Adolf Hitler, British Aristocracy, Historical Gossip, True Stories, The Crown, Period Drama.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
