From manifestos to mainstream: Understanding the far-Right ‘Great Replacement’ theory

Core Argument - The report analyzes the "Great Replacement Theory," a conspiracy theory alleging a plot to diminish white power by replacing white people with non-white immigrants in Western nations [2] - The theory, originating in France, has spread online and fueled violence, including attacks in Pittsburgh, El Paso, and Buffalo [3][4][9] - The report highlights the mainstreaming of this theory, noting its adoption by figures like Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson, and its appearance in congressional records [5][6][8] - The report suggests that the theory is influencing Republican policies, particularly regarding immigration [10][12] Key Events & Figures - Charlottesville 2017: White nationalist rally highlights the emergence of the "Great Replacement Theory" [1] - Pittsburgh (2018): Synagogue shooting motivated by the belief that Jewish organizations are bringing migrants to the US to "kill our people" [4] - El Paso (2019): Walmart shooting targeting a Latino community, with the shooter referencing the "Great Replacement" [4] - Buffalo (2022): Grocery store shooting in a predominantly Black neighborhood, with the shooter expressing racist views about the replacement and genocide of white people [9][10] - Tucker Carlson (2021): Fox News host gives a "cosign" to Replacement Theory, claiming Democrats are trying to replace the current electorate with "more obedient voters from the third world" [6][7] - Scott Perry (2021): Republican Congressman echoes Replacement Theory during a foreign affairs committee hearing [8] - Donald Trump (2024): Falsely suggests Democrats are bringing illegal immigrants to America to vote for them [11] - Eric Schmidt: Republican Senator articulates the belief that "they" (presumably Democrats or other groups) want to build a new America with a new people, emphasizing that America belongs to "us" [13][14]