Louise, Steph and Adam discuss the life and influences of Joseph Rutherford, second president of the Watchtower Society. We discuss his simmering anger and the things he banned, the four women he summoned with a whistle, his relationship with his personal assistant Berta, his wealth and alcoholism that led him to move away from Bethel to his vanity project Beth Sarim. We also learn about his hatred of the Jews and his love of Hitler which turned sour and led to the death of over 1000 faithful Jehovah's Witnesses. We also manage to fit in some discussion of his hatred of beards, women, Mother's Day and prohibition.
References:
'The Four Presidents of the Watchtower' by Edmond C Gruss. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Presidents-Watch-Society-Jehovahs-Witnesses/dp/1594671311
Photo of Christmas celebration at Brooklyn Bethel: https://www.reddit.com/r/exjw/comments/zu71me/the_last_time_christmas_was_celebrated_at/
Evidence of Nazi Flags at Rutherford's Berlin convention: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdJEvw9pdAc
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Music: 'You're Not Who You Say You Are' by Ancient Modesto, Written by Simon Endeacott, Produced by Ian David c Four Monkeys Records