Fascism is… …the political belief in extreme nationalism, dictators controlling all levels of society, and crushing all opposition

Fascist States Fascist states almost always have totalitarian governments run by dictators.

…different from this? How are these… …different from these? Fascism = Extreme Unity

Fascist Party used it as their symbol represented unity and strength historical connection - used by Roman Empire, along with salute Fasces = “a bundle of sticks” Mussolini (front) and Blackshirts give the “Roman Salute”

2 Great Fascist Nations Fascist Italy Nazi Germany

Communism Versus Fascism Communism Government tries to create an equal society without class distinctions (i.e. working class, ruling class...) or private wealth. Often focused on uniting all workers of the world (not just nationally, but internationally) Fascism Government supports idea of class distinctions and private property. Focuses on making nation powerful through total national unity and aggressive foreign policy.

DemocracyCommunismFascism Ruled by? Elected leader (president/ prime minister) Dictator Individual Rights? Individual freedoms are protected by law No individual rights—given up for collective benefit No rights, state is supreme Thoughts about role of classes? Free trade Majority rules, but minority rights are protected. All people can vote Working class should unite and overthrow the upper class to move toward a classless society Rejects the idea of class conflict in favor of class collaboration (mediated by state)

How did Mussolini come to power? Context:Post-WWIEconomy is horrible, people are desperateMussolini is a socialist journalistLong history of using violence to get what he wants (he stabbed a classmate at age 9)Becomes fierce anti-CommunistGets a following for his anti-Communist, Nationalist speeches and writing.

Fascism under Mussolini

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