1. Fascism and Mussolini

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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!

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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)
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