Lesson 3: Mussolini's Rise to Power

Introduction

Quote: History is an encounter between character and circumstances.
Distinction between conditions fostering authoritarianism and methods used by authoritarians.
Emergence of authoritarian states can be viewed through structural factors and human agency.

Context: Authoritarian regimes are less common in rich, socially stable countries with a tradition of limited government.
Crisis Situations: Often arise due to external factors like war or economic crises.

Transformismo: Pre-war Italian politics dominated by deal-making among liberal politicians, excluding mass parties like socialists.
Post-War Crisis: Socialist Party grew rapidly, inspired by Bolsheviks, causing unrest.
Arditi and Fascists: Mussolini's leadership of ex-soldiers and nationalists formed Fascio di Combattimento.
Failed State Characteristics: High violence, paramilitary groups, government incapability.
1921 Elections: Socialist inability to form a government despite being the largest party.
Mussolini's Appointment: Result of threats of violence and political pressure on the King.

Social Division: Economic weakness exacerbated divisions between north (industrial) and south (agricultural).
Post-War Economic Crisis: National debt and inflation from wartime borrowing; industrial unrest and unemployment.

Lack of Democratic Tradition: Post-war Italy had weak democratic culture.
Nationalist Sentiments: Fascism capitalized on nationalist and imperial ideologies.
Karl Popper's Theory: Authoritarian regimes create closed societies intolerant of diverse ideas.

WWI Impact: Catalyzed the rise of totalitarian regimes like fascism and communism, particularly due to defeat.
Economic Dislocation: Adaptation struggles post-war increased authoritarian tendencies.
Cultural Impact: War fostered militaristic values and authoritarian leadership.

Mussolini's Political Maneuvering: Broke with PSI over war stance, leading nationalist movement.
Violence in Politics: Use of Blackshirts to intimidate opponents and suppress dissent.
March on Rome: Mythical march that symbolized the threat of violence, leading to political change.

Support for Mussolini: Backed by powerful social classes and political elites.
Appeal of Fascism: Addressed diverse societal needs with nationalism, anti-communism, and promises of order.

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