In the name of fighting fascism, Antifa has become a militant movement known more for its confrontational and violent tactics than for principled resistance to authoritarianism. While it claims to oppose totalitarianism, the methods of Antifa in the United States today bear an unsettling resemblance to those of the Sturmabteilung (SA)—the infamous Brownshirts who paved the way for Hitler’s rise in 1930s Germany.
This article explores the history and tactics of Antifa, compares them to the National Socialist Brownshirts, and draws attention to the tragic irony that Antifa’s actions closely align with the very definition of fascism. Further, we examine how several governments have formally classified Antifa as a terrorist group, and how the United States may soon follow suit.
Who Is Antifa?
Antifa—short for “anti-fascist”—is not a unified organization but a loosely affiliated network of left-wing activists. It lacks centralized leadership and formal structure, but its adherents are bound together by a shared opposition to what they consider fascism, racism, and authoritarianism. According to the CSIS, Antifa draws much of its inspiration from European anti-fascist movements, particularly from Germany and Italy in the early 20th century.
Tactically, Antifa engages in what it calls “direct action.” This includes doxing political opponents, counter-protesting conservative events, destroying property, assaulting individuals they label as fascists or racists, and advocating for the de-platforming of speakers—especially those from right-wing or libertarian backgrounds. The movement’s hallmark is the “black bloc” strategy, where activists wear black clothing and masks to conceal their identities during demonstrations.
Though its supporters argue that such tactics are necessary to prevent the spread of fascist ideologies, others—including many on the left—have expressed alarm at Antifa’s authoritarian behavior. The use of coercion, intimidation, and physical violence to silence dissent is at the core of the critique.
One illustrative example comes from Portland, Oregon, where conservative journalist Andy Ngo was repeatedly assaulted while reporting on Antifa activities. In 2023, a jury awarded Ngo $300,000 in a lawsuit against Antifa members who were found liable for physical attacks (KPTV).
The Brownshirts: Shock Troops of Authoritarianism
The Sturmabteilung (SA), also known as the Brownshirts, served as the paramilitary wing of Adolf Hitler’s National Socialist German Workers’ Party (Nazi Party) during its early rise to power in Weimar Germany. The SA was instrumental in the Nazi strategy of suppressing dissent through street-level violence and political intimidation. Led by Ernst Röhm, the Brownshirts disrupted political rallies, attacked rival political groups (particularly communists and social democrats), and enforced ideological conformity through fear.
Wearing uniforms and operating with the implicit backing of the Nazi Party, the SA created a climate of lawlessness and political terror in Germany. Their actions were vital in undermining the legitimacy of the democratic Weimar Republic and preparing the ground for totalitarian rule.
The SA eventually became too powerful and unruly even for Hitler. In 1934, during the “Night of the Long Knives,” Hitler ordered the execution of Röhm and other top SA leaders to consolidate his control and reassure the German military elite.
Parallels Between Antifa and the SA
Though Antifa and the SA emerge from different ideological roots—left-wing anarchism versus right-wing nationalism—their tactics, strategies, and ultimate effects on civil society show troubling overlap:
1. Political Intimidation
Both Antifa and the SA used violence and threats to suppress opposing viewpoints. For the SA, it was communists and liberals; for Antifa, it’s conservatives, libertarians, and anyone deemed “fascist”—often based on loose criteria or guilt by association.
2. Street Violence as a Political Tool
The Brownshirts famously engaged in brawls and riots. Antifa has followed suit, often initiating clashes at public events and protests. Numerous Antifa actions in cities like Portland and Berkeley have resulted in serious injuries and widespread property damage.
3. Suppression of Speech
The SA disrupted speeches and meetings by opponents. Antifa routinely shuts down events and intimidates speakers at universities or political rallies. They’ve even attacked journalists and bystanders, mirroring the SA’s disdain for independent reporting.
4. Uniformity and Anonymity
The SA wore brown uniforms to project force and discipline. Antifa’s black bloc serves a similar function—intimidation, solidarity, and the protection of anonymity to avoid accountability.
The Fascist Irony
Fascism, as defined by Merriam-Webster, involves “forcible suppression of opposition,” centralized control, and the exaltation of ideology above individual rights. The hallmark of fascism is not necessarily its political direction—left or right—but its authoritarian nature and the methods used to enforce compliance.
This is where the bitter irony lies: Antifa, in its pursuit to root out fascism, employs the very mechanisms of fascist oppression. Its willingness to use violence, to suppress dissent, and to intimidate political rivals violates the principles of liberal democracy and free expression. It acts not as a bulwark against tyranny but as a mirror of it.
Antifa’s Global Classification as a Terrorist Group
Governments around the world have started recognizing the threat posed by violent Antifa cells. In 2020, Germany, which has a particularly high sensitivity to political extremism due to its history, classified some Antifa groups as violent extremists. In Austria, violent Antifa groups have been scrutinized for inciting political violence under anti-terror laws.
The United States is now considering similar action. H.Res.26—introduced in the 119th Congress—calls for the designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. The resolution states:
“Antifa represents opposition to the democratic ideals of peaceful assembly and free speech for all. They have used violence to achieve political ends, much like other domestic extremist movements of the past.”
(Congressional Source)
While the bill has yet to pass, it reflects growing concern over the destabilizing effects of ideologically driven political violence—regardless of whether it wears a red armband or a black hoodie.
Conclusion: The Price of Fighting Monsters
Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche warned, “He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster.” In attempting to fight fascism with fists and firebombs, Antifa has crossed the line into the very realm of authoritarian coercion it claims to oppose.
The comparison to the Nazi Brownshirts is not mere hyperbole—it is a sober reflection on how political violence, once normalized, becomes self-justifying and destructive. If our society is to preserve the values of liberty, tolerance, and dialogue, we must reject all forms of ideological extremism that rely on violence—no matter their stated goals.
To oppose fascism effectively, we must do so without becoming fascists ourselves.
- 🔗 Wikipedia: Antifa (United States) – Overview of the movement’s history, structure, and tactics.
- 🔗 Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS): Who Are Antifa, and Are They a Threat? – Analysis of Antifa’s structure, ideology, and incidents of violence.
- 🔗 Fox Business: What is Antifa and Who Funds It? – Discussion on Antifa’s financial backing and international presence.
- 🔗 KPTV News: Conservative Journalist Awarded $300K in Lawsuit Against Portland Antifa Members – Reporting on the Andy Ngo civil case and physical attacks.
- 🔗 History Hit: Hitler’s Bullyboys – The Role of the SA in Nazi Germany – Historical background on the Sturmabteilung (SA) and their violent role in Hitler’s rise.
- 🔗 Wikipedia: Night of the Long Knives – Account of Hitler’s purge of the SA leadership.
- 🔗 Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Definition of Fascism – Source for the formal definition of fascism used in the article.
- 🔗 U.S. Congress: H.Res.26 – Designating Antifa as a Domestic Terrorist Organization – Legislation introduced to officially designate Antifa as a domestic terrorist group.
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