The Rise and Ideology of Italian Fascism (1922-1945)

Fascism: Origins, Doctrine, and Legacy

Fascism emerged as a political and social movement in Italy following the First World War. It established a regime based on the movement founded by Benito Mussolini.

The doctrinal bases of this movement are collected in two key texts: Mein Kampf (reflecting Nazi ideas) and Mussolini's Fascist Doctrine. Since the 1930s, the German Nazi doctrine further radicalized this prototype.

The regime collapsed with the defeat in World War II. However, the text notes an unexpected rebirth of fascism in Western democracies, termed Neo-Fascism—a label applied to every extreme right movement inspired by fascist ideology. This phenomenon is referenced in the context of the decade of 1820–1890, drawing attention to its enduring, though historically misplaced, conceptual roots.

General Features of Fascist Ideology

1. Totalitarian State Power: The State's jurisdiction is absolute; nothing exists outside of it. This totalitarian state form rejects the principles of liberalism.
2. Anti-Parliamentarianism: A fundamental rejection of democratic principles and parliamentary government.
3. Rule by an Elite: The belief that only a select elite is qualified to govern.
4. Charismatic Leadership: The existence of a powerful, charismatic leader, often based on the philosophy of Nietzsche and the Sopena theory.
5. Anti-Communism.
6. Exacerbated Nationalism: Exalting the values of one's own Race, the Blood, and the Nation. This includes the reclamation of "Vital Space," which is the claim of territories that resulted in militaristic imperialism.
7. Messianic Sentiment: The movement is presented as the savior (El Salvador), offering the solution to all problems (problemas).
8. Irrationalism.
9. Cult of Personality: A passion for symbols, ceremonies, hymns, and organized mass movements.

Social Bases of Support

Fascism was supported by several key social groups:

• Veterans: Military organizations, such as the SA and SS in Germany, provided crucial support.
• The Young and Middle Class: Groups threatened by economic crisis.
• The Gentry and Landowners.

Mussolini's Arrival to Power (1922–1926)

Before the notice convening a general strike, Mussolini's movement warned the government that if it did not intervene, the Fascists would take action themselves.

In October 1922, the "Black Shirts" marched on the capital in what became known as the March on Rome, meeting virtually no resistance. Subsequently, the King ordered Mussolini to form a government.

This initial coalition government granted Mussolini extensive powers, including control of the press and the suspension of the right to strike. Mussolini then called elections, securing a majority. However, he soon decided to dissolve parliament and suppress all opposition. This process culminated in 1926, inaugurating Mussolini's fascist dictatorship.

Fascist Dictatorship and Policy

Mussolini, known as the Duce, was appointed with full power and ruled primarily through decree-law formulas. The regime established specific laws designed to defend the new system and ensure its continuity.

Key policy actions included:

• The creation of a new political police force.
• The establishment of a national council to regulate relations between employers and workers.
• The signing of the Lateran Pacts with the Vatican, which reconciled the Italian government with the Papacy.