Pre-Notes Fascism was named for the Roman symbol of 
power - a bundle of rods tied with an axe called fasces

Rise of Fascism

Becomes popular for two reasons People blamed democratic govts for post WWI and Great Depression problems Willing to try radical, political, social experiments in govt

Fascism emphasized extreme nationalism and power of the state It denied people individual liberties

Authoritarian leaders used several methods to create unity and consolidate power Special salutes and emblems

Large rallies and military parades

Elite military groups that used absolute power and terror

Italy Open the way to victory for Fascist Italy

Upset that they did not receive large amount of land

Govt blamed for inflation, unemployment, economic problems

1919 Fascist Party is founded by Benito Mussolini Used unrest to seize gain power

His followers were called the Black Shirts attack anyone that disagreed with them usually socialists and communists

Mussolini promised to strengthen economy

Gains support of middle class by ending a strike that had crippled Italy

1922 - Seizes power - Fascists march into Rome

King Victor Emmanuel III named Mussolini the Prime Minister

People start calling him Il Duce - The Leader - Sets up Fascist dictatorship

He will use the secret police, prison, propaganda, censorship to maintain control

Mussolini increases military 1935 - Italy invades Ethiopia