Acerbo law and 1924 election Flashcards
(14 cards)
Why was it difficult to secure a majority in Italy?
Because of proportional representation
What is the Acerbo Law?
- Mussolini proposed that two-thirds of parliamentary seats went to the party that won more than 25% of the vote
Who opposed the Acerbo law?
- PSI
- PCI
Who was in favor of the Acerbo law?
- Liberal elites like Giolitti
- The king
- The Vatican
How did the fascists apply pressure on the gov if the vote didn’t pass?
staging demonstrations in Tuscany and Umbria
What arguments might Mussolini have given in public for introducing this law?
- Law would bring more political stability, it would guarantee a more long-lasting govt
How did the passing of the law contribute to Mussolini’s consolidation of power?
- Encouraged Mussolini to call an election in 6 April 1924
- Ensured he had an overwhelming amount of support in parliament
When was the Acerbo law passed?
1923
What was the atmosphere of the 1924 election?
- tainted by violence and intimidation
Who was killed in the 1924 election?
PSI candidate Antonion Piccinini
Why might Mussolini have been keen to suppress the violence in the 1924 election?
- to make himself/his party seem more credible and not some thugs
- attract the support of the u/c and m/c
- violence would scare away support
- for legitimacy
What was the turnout of the 1924 April election?
64%
- Fascists won 66.3% of the vote
How many deputies had the fascists increased to?
35 to 275
What reasons led to the PNF victory in the 1924 April election?
- weakness of opposition (unable to unite against the fascists)
- the electoral support of prominent liberals (Orlando, Salandra)
- a genuine belief that Mussolini could provide a strong leadership
