Fascism and Mussolini

Objective: Students will analyze and outline Italy during the interwar years and how Mussolini and his Fascist party rose to power as measured by their Cornell notes and exit slip.

Setting the Stage Many democracies including the U.S., Britain, and France remain strong despite the economic crisis caused by the Great Depression Millions of people lost faith in democratic government Many turned to an extreme system called Fascism

Fascist Beliefs and Policies Fascism- A militant political movement that emphasized loyalty to the state and obedience to its leader Promised to revive the economy, punish those responsible for hard times, and restore national pride Unlike communism, fascism had no clearly defined theory or program Fascists wore uniforms of a certain color, used special salutes, and held mass rallies

Fascism vs. Communism Both systems were ruled by dictators who allowed only their political party (one-party system) Both denied individual rights Unlike communism, Fascists did not seek a classless society Each class had its place and function Fascists were nationalist while communist were internationalist hoping to unite all workers worldwide

Fascism in Italy Fascism’s rise in Italy was fueled by disappointment over the failure to win large territorial gains after WW1 Unemployment + economic crisis led to social unrest Democratic gov. seemed helpless Wanted a leader who would take action Benito Mussolini on the rise!

Benito Mussolini Newspaper editor and politician Promised to rescue Italy by reviving the economy and rebuilding its armed forces Founded the Fascist party in 1919 Popularity rapidly increased as economy worsened

Benito Mussolini Support came from the middle class, the aristocracy, and industrial leaders Mussolini gain popularity and named the Il Duce of Italy by King Victor Emmanuel III Abolished democracy and outlawed all political parties except for the Fascists Censors forced radio stations and publications to broadcast or publish only pro-fascist materials

QW #12 – Communism Vs. Fascism Create a Venn Diagram to compare and contrast communism and fascism. List 2-3 difference for each and 2-3 similarities. (Write in complete sentences and elaborate on each) Pg. 476