Italian Fascism: Ideological Roots and Political Ascent

Doctrinal Principles of Fascism

• Radical nationalism and collective discontent within Italian society due to the war. Italy sought an empire.
• Anti-parliamentarism and anti-liberalism. It believed that democracy and liberalism weakened the state, advocating for the submission of the individual to the state and the curtailment of individual rights and freedoms.
• Distrust of reason and intellectuals. It appealed to the fanaticism and emotions of the people.
• Concern for social aspects such as work, housing, and security. It was a paternalistic regime.
• Belief in leadership by an absolute ruler, demanding blind obedience. Fascism was supported by three pillars:
  • A strong state
  • A single party
  • The subordination of the individual to the state

Italy's Post-War Social and Political Climate

Despite winning the war, Italian society felt discontented with the conflict's outcome. The nation faced a moral crisis, with its government criticized for the high cost in lives and the limited benefits gained. The war seemed imposed and misunderstood. Italy struggled with political, economic, and social crises, leading to widespread criticism of the democratic system's inefficiency.

Benito Mussolini established the Fasci di Combattimento (Blackshirts) to confront left-wing parties and unions, aiming to halt the progression of labor and leftist ideologies.

The Fascist Ascent to Power

The Fascist Party grew, gaining support from powerful social groups, including landowners, the aristocracy, and big capitalists.

In 1922, Mussolini orchestrated the famous March on Rome to demand the king's appointment of Fascists to the government. King Victor Emmanuel III overruled government actions against Mussolini and appointed him Prime Minister.

In 1924, elections resulted in 65% of the vote for the Fascist Party.

By 1926, the regime abolished other political parties, established press censorship, and initiated political persecution of all opposition. The structure of the Fascist state blurred the lines between the party and the state.

Key Policies and Reforms of the Fascist Regime

Fascism sought public involvement and social support through policies that led to major social reforms:

• A policy of large public works.
• An autarkic policy promoting the development of national production capabilities.
• Development of a social policy doctrine called corporatism, based on consensus between employers and workers, designed to curb left-wing unionism.