Focus 2/26Focus 2/26  In 1919, Benito Mussolini organized World War I veterans and other discontented Italians into the Fascist party. In fiery speeches, Mussolini spoke of reviving Roman greatness. Mussolini promised to end corruption, bring order to chaos, and revive the Italian economy.  Points for Discussion: Why would war veterans embrace extreme nationalism?  Term to Know: Discontent  Critical Lens: Extreme nationalists who embrace the power of the individual often reject communism.

Fascism in Italy

 Fascism – authoritarian government rooted in extreme nationalism while glorifying violent actions and discipline with blind loyalty to the state.

Fascism in Italy  Mussolini “Fascism conceives of the state as an absolute, in comparison with which all individuals or groups are relative, only to be conceived of in their relation to the state.”

Fascism in Italy Treaty of Versailles angered Italians because they expected to gain more territory.

Fascism in Italy  As Italian soldiers returned home from World War I, unemployment and economic upheaval threatened Italy.

Fascism in Italy  1919, Benito Mussolini organizes Fascist Party in Italy in response to economic problems and socialist threat.

Fascism in Italy  Fascism promises Italians a strong stable government.

Fascism in Italy  Mussolini organizes his supporters into combat squads bent on violence and intimidation to reach their goals. This group became known as the Black Shirts.

Fascism in Italy  By 1925, Mussolini began to consolidate his power and gave himself the name Il Duce (The Leader)

Fascism in Italy  Mussolini’s Fascist Government -Suppressed rival parties -Restricted the press -Rigged elections -Established secret police -Jailed or murdered critics

Fascism in Italy  Mussolini established an economy controlled by the government called a corporate state.

Fascism in Italy  Fascists pursued aggressive foreign expansion

Fascism in Italy  Men, women, and children in Italy were bombarded with propaganda that glorified Mussolini and the State.

Fascism in Italy  Italian youth were taught strict military discipline.

Closure  Explain tactics used by fascists to gain power in Italy.  Why would people suffering in tough economic times would pick fascism over democracy?