Aim #3: How did Benito Mussolini establish a Fascist dictatorship in Italy? Homework: IW #3 due tomorrow

1. Why were the Italian people unhappy after World War I? Italy was promised land in WWI, but didn’t get any in the Treaty of Versailles. Inflation (high prices) High unemployment, low wages

2. What was Benito Mussolini’s background? He was: – A teacher – A newspaperman – A soldier in WWI – A political leader

3. What are the characteristics of Fascism? Extreme Nationalism: Fascists are extremely loyal to their country. A nation must have a strong military to conquer weaker countries. People must pledge their loyalty and obedience to an all-powerful dictator. Why do you think this kind of government would have appealed to many Italians in the 1920s?

4. What are the similarities and differences between Communism and Fascism? Similarities: An all-powerful dictator should control every aspect of society. Differences: Communists want a classless society, but Fascists have no problem with the upper classes having more land or money than the lower classes.

5. Why did Mussolini have the support of the factory owners, businessmen, and wealthy landowners? He would protect their wealth and property from the communists. He would build up the economy, allowing them to make more money. Why would the support of these individuals have been important in helping Mussolini rise to power?

6. How did Mussolini plan to take power in Italy? Brought 30,000 of his followers to Rome, marched and rioted in the street until King Victor Emmanuel made Mussolini Prime Minister.

7. What are some of the positive things Mussolini’s government accomplished? Cleaned up the cities Reduced crime Built more schools Opened more factories to provide jobs Electricity was brought to rural areas The trains ran on time!

8. What were some of the oppressive things Mussolini did to make sure no one opposed him? Fascist secret police beat, arrest or execute anyone who speaks out against his government. All political parties but the Fascists were banned. Worker strikes were forbidden Used censorship

Concluding Question If you had lived in Italy during the 1920s, would you have been willing to sacrifice some of your freedom to get the strong government and improvements that Mussolini provided? Why or why not?