Robert W. Welch Jr.

Robert W. Welch Jr. was an American political activist and founder of the John Birch Society, a conservative organization founded in 1958. He was known for his staunch anti-communist views and promoted ideas that questioned government leaders' loyalty and motives during the Cold War era. Welch’s work aimed to promote limited government, individual liberty, and skepticism of international organizations. Although controversial and often criticized for promoting conspiracy theories, his influence helped shape conservative political thought in the mid-20th century. He was also an author and speaker who sought to alert Americans to perceived threats from Communism and excessive government power.