4.2 Mussolini’s Rise to Power

Why does Italy turn to fascism?

Italians were bitter and disappointed after WWI.

Suffered from economic problems from the Great Depression.

People want a leader who will take action.

What is “fascism”?

Political movement that:

•Promotes extreme nationalism

•Promotes extreme militarism

• Is ruled by a dictator

•Believed in a class system

•Emphasized the state over the individual

How does Mussolini take control?

1. Benito Mussolini was a politician who criticized Italy’s government.

2. Founded the Fascist Party in 1919.

3. Promised to rescue Italy.

4. Played on fear of workers revolting and gained support of wealthy.

5. Black Shirts attacked communists and socialists on the streets.

6. 1922: 30,000 fascists march to the capital and demand Mussolini be put in power.

7. As IL DUCE, he abolished all political parties except fascism, used secret police, and

censored the media.

Italy Attacks Ethiopia1935: Mussolini avenges

previous defeat by invading Ethiopia.

Ethiopia was no match for Italy’s weapons.

Emperor Haile Selassie asked the League of Nations for help, but

members appeased Italy and did nothing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HW31Pq76-Q&nohtml5=False

Start at 7:30-24:00