Benito Mussolini Europe’s First Fascist Dictator

Fascism? How does a dictator rise to power? Ruling Wisconsin warm-up

Fascism Fascism is a system of government Strong social and economic control by central government Dictator as leader Nationalism emphasized, supreme authority of leader Hitler/Mussolini

Fascism Main goals: 1. Create an Empire (Nationalism) 2. Develop a “New Man” from the “Ordinary Man”—morally and physically strong

Discussion How is World War I going to led to the rise of dictators in Italy, Germany? A dictator ever rise in the US?

Mussolini’s Rise to Power Socialist Journalist founded a Fascist newspaper Italy hit by economic crisis after WWI 1922 March on Rome: King Emmanuel feared it would lead to Civil War and gave Mussolini the Prime Minister position

Rise to Power

Mussolini’s ultimate goal 1. Create a new Roman Empire --He conquered Ethiopia and aided Franco in the Spanish Civil War. Even Pope: “the man whom God has sent us” Pope Pius XI He controlled the Italian industry, schools, and the press.

Some seemingly ridiculous laws created by Mussolini 1. Made work days longer but salaries did not increase 2. Newpapers could be no longer than 6 pages 3. No more luxurious homes could be built. 4. Nothing could be sold after 10 pm.

Involvement in WWII

Rise to Power he created his dictatorship 1. Got rid of all opposing newspapers 2. Got rid of all non-fascist parties 3. Created a secret police force---and had the Italian people call him “IL Duce” meaning the leader!

Rise to Power

Italy’s involvement during WWII

World War II Influenced Hitler and the Nazis Joined an alliance with Hitler in 1936 Axis (Germany, Italy, Japan) 1938 put in anti-Semitic laws

End of his regime 1. Rumors that the allies were going to liberate Italy 2. Mussolini tried to flee to Switzerland with his mistress 3. He was caught and executed by the Italians

End of Mussolini

Italy after WWII Italy was left in extreme poverty and disunity which led to the creation of a new government and constitution