kohain,
Every one always learned the Rambam. They had an issue with the Moreh Nevuchim, which they still do — although, now we treat it with Kavod. They burned the Moreh. Afterwards, in France 24 wagonloads of Sefarim were burned. On bottom they saw the Yad. This was taken as a sign that it was a retribution for burning the Rambam’s Moreh Nevuchim. From then on, although learning it was still not encouraged, it was treated properly.
I know people enjoy drawing parallels to the Rambam and any particular controversial Hashkafic person, but it is a bad comparison. The Rambam was recognized in his day, and his Sefer Yad Chazaka spread far and wide very fast.