1899–1938
✕ Killed in custody
Founder and leader of the Iron Guard (Legion of the Archangel Michael), the main Romanian fascist movement
Born in Huși, he emerged after the First World War in Iași as an anticommunist and antisemitic agitator, co-founded the National-Christian Defense League with A. C. Cuza and killed the Iași police prefect. In November 1927 he founded the Legion of the Archangel Michael, which he ruled as “the Captain”. Repeatedly banned, the Legion survived under other names and carried out assassinations, including Premier Ion G. Duca, and incited pogroms. He advocated alliance with Nazi Germany, and in 1937 his party came third with 15.8% of the vote. In conflict with King Carol II’s royal dictatorship he was imprisoned and, in November 1938, killed by the Gendarmerie.
Also known as: Corneliu Zelinski
Activities and affiliations
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1927–1938
Iron Guard (Legion of the Archangel Michael)Main
Political and party leadership