IKEA Founder INGVAR KAMPRAD: Might Be a Nazi

 http://www.mogulite.com by Hillary Reinsberg       

Oh, super. Turns out the Swedish founder of Ikea was also allegedly a Nazi. But before you go throw away your Brimnes and Mälm sets, read on for an explanation. If you want to chuck ‘em afterwards, well, we understand.

Lots of questions are arising about particleboard mogul Ingvar Kamprad’s past, following the release of a new book which alleges that he was involved in the Sweden Socialist Union (SSS), BBCreports. According to Elisabeth Asbrink’s book, Kamprad was a recruiter for the SSS, and was a far more active member than he had previously let on. Kamprad had a police file labeled “Nazi,” and apparently remains faithful to Sweden’s most famous fascist leader. Not good.

Though the so-called Swedish Nazis weren’t exactly part of Hitler’s Nazi party, some, or perhaps much of their ideology was similar. Extreme nationalism, anti-Semitism and a cultish following of leader Per Engdahl were key elements. Though Kamprad has since denounced his involvement, he remained a friend and supporter of Engdahl’s throughout his life, even inviting Engdahl to his wedding. Yikes.

For whatever it’s worth, Kamprad says he is deeply regretful of that period of his life and the decisions he made, which he attributes to a German grandmother and youthful naivete. The police file outlining Kamprad’s Nazi sympathizing is from 1943, which is actually the same year he launched Ikea. He was, however, only 17 at the time.

Since then, Kamprad has grown his business into a worldwide empire, with $6 billion in the bank for himself. He nonetheless drives a decades-old Volvo and lives a rather frugal life.