Italian Fascism under Benito Mussolini was a far-right, authoritarian ideology that sought a totalitarian state with a focus on nationalism, militarism, and corporatism. The rise of Mussolini and the Fascist Party led to the dismantling of democratic institutions and the establishment of a dictatorship. The regime used propaganda and symbolism to solidify its power, but its expansionist policies and alliance with Nazi Germany led to its downfall in 1945.
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Benito Mussolini founded the Fasci Italiani di Combattimento in 1919, which evolved into the National Fascist Party (PNF) in 1921
Authoritarianism
Mussolini declared "Everything within the state, nothing outside the state, nothing against the state," emphasizing the absolute power of the state in all aspects of life
Nationalism
Fascism promoted aggressive nationalism, seeking to create a strong national identity and often marginalizing minorities
Militarism
The glorification of war and expansionist foreign policy were central to Fascism's ideology
Corporatism
The economy was organized according to corporatism, which aimed to integrate the interests of workers, employers, and the state
Mussolini established the core tenets of Fascism, including authoritarianism, nationalism, militarism, and corporatism, earning him the title "Il Duce" (The Leader)
The rise of Fascism was fueled by widespread dissatisfaction in Italy following World War I
The March on Rome in 1922 led to Mussolini's appointment as Prime Minister and the subsequent dismantling of democratic institutions
Mussolini transformed Italy into a one-party state and eliminated political opposition to solidify his dictatorship
The Fascist regime employed symbols such as the fasces and the cult of personality surrounding Mussolini to entrench its power and ideology
Mussolini's policies spurred economic growth and infrastructure development, but also led to inefficiencies and social strife, and ultimately drew Italy into World War II and international isolation
Mussolini's capture and execution in 1945 marked the end of Fascist rule in Italy