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ITALY Flashcards

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1
Q

What is fascism?

A

Far-right, authoritarian, ultranationalist political ideology movement characterized by:

  • Dictatorial leader
  • Centralised autocracy
  • Militarism
  • Forcible suppression of opposition
  • Subordination of individual interests for the perceived good of the nation/race
  • Strong regimentation of society and the economy

Fascism emerged in the early 20th century and is most commonly associated with Mussolini in Italy.

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2
Q

What economic issues did Italy face after WWI?

A

Italy faced several economic issues:

  • High inflation (over 400%)
  • Large war debts (national debt rose from 16 billion lira to 85 billion lira)
  • Widespread unemployment (2.5 million soldiers demobilized)
  • Food shortages (food riots in Turin)

These problems contributed to social unrest and dissatisfaction with the government.

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3
Q

What was the ‘mutilated victory’ experienced by Italy?

A

The term refers to Italy’s dissatisfaction with the territorial gains after WWI, despite heavy sacrifices:

  • 620,000 men killed
  • 450,000 permanently disabled
  • Denied territories promised in the Treaty of London
  • Gabriele D’Annunzio seized Fiume in retaliation

This feeling of betrayal fueled nationalist sentiments and support for extremist parties.

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4
Q

What was the impact of high inflation on Italian society?

A

High inflation led to:

  • Workers’ real wages fell by 25%
  • Destruction of middle-class savings
  • The lira’s value dropped to 1/6 of its 1913 value

Such economic instability pushed many Italians towards extremist political movements.

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5
Q

What role did the King of Italy play in government?

A

Victor Emmanuel III served as:

  • Head of government
  • Could issue royal decrees
  • Appointed the Prime Minister, Cabinet Minister, and Senate
  • Involved in foreign affairs

His significant powers often overshadowed the democratic aspects of the government.

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6
Q

What is Trasformismo in Italian politics?

A

Trasformismo refers to:

  • A practice where politicians joined coalitions through bribery
  • Maintained liberal coalition governments with support from various factions

This practice was criticized for inefficiency and corruption in the Italian political system.

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7
Q

What was the Biennio Rosso?

A

The Biennio Rosso (1919-1920) was a period characterized by:

  • Increased socialist agitation
  • Direct actions including strikes and factory occupations
  • Heightened fears of a communist revolution

This period significantly influenced the rise of fascism as many sought stability.

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8
Q

What were the divergent beliefs of the Socialist Party (PSI)?

A

The Socialist Party was divided into:

  • Reformists: sought democratic socialism
  • Maximalists: aimed for more radical socialist reforms

This division weakened the socialist opposition to fascism.

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9
Q

When was the National Fascist Party founded?

A

The National Fascist Party was founded on:

  • March 23, 1919
  • Initially named Fasci di Combattimento
  • Renamed on November 9, 1921

Benito Mussolini was the founder and key figure in the party’s development.

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10
Q

What were the aims of the Italian Popular Party?

A

The Italian Popular Party aimed to:

  • Promote Catholic democratic values
  • Oppose communism
  • Gain political representation (101 seats in 1919)

Their existence posed a significant threat to Mussolini’s rise.

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11
Q

What was the outcome of Mussolini’s early political strategies?

A

Mussolini’s early strategies included:

  • Forming alliances and electoral pacts
  • Promising a strong, centralized government
  • Using violence to suppress opposition

These strategies helped him consolidate power and gain support.

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12
Q

Fill in the blank: The _______ were a group that sought drastic renewal of Italian culture and society.

A

[Futurists]

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13
Q

True or False: The Italian Nationalist Association was a left-wing organization.

A

False

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14
Q

What led to the rise of Mussolini and the Fascist Party in Italy?

A

The rise was facilitated by:

  • Economic instability and social unrest
  • Fears of communism and socialist uprisings
  • Ineffectiveness of the democratic government

Mussolini capitalized on these issues to gain popular support.

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15
Q

What was the Italian Nationalist Association?

A

A far right wing group consisting of nationalists and conservatives unhappy with the peace settlement, nostalgic for the Roman Empire, and opposed to communism.

They sought a more centralized, authoritarian government.

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16
Q

What significant event occurred in 1919 related to the Arditi?

A

An Arditi Association was formed, and Mussolini was an Arditi.

The Arditi were elite assault troops in the Italian army during World War I.

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17
Q

What grievances did fascism address in Italy?

A

Social, economic, and political grievances, appealing to nationalists and disillusioned socialists.

It emphasized national identity and romantic nationalism.

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18
Q

What was Mussolini’s political background before fascism?

A

Initially a socialist, opposed to Italian imperialism, and editor of the Socialist Party’s newspaper, Avanti.

He shifted views during WW1 to advocate for war.

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19
Q

What was the significance of the 6 June 1919 announcement by Mussolini?

A

Mussolini announced a militant-sounding Fascist Programme combining right and left wing demands, appealing to ex-servicemen and elites.

This helped consolidate his support among various social groups.

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20
Q

What was the role of the squadristi?

A

Young Fascists who acted against communists, terrorizing socialist trade unions, and supported by the army and police.

They were instrumental in establishing fascist control in Italy.

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21
Q

What led to the increase in support for Mussolini?

A

The unrest of Biennio Rosso and the fear of socialist threats among the elites and middle class.

This was driven by negative cohesion rather than political ideology.

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22
Q

What was the Pact of Pacification?

A

An agreement signed by Mussolini on 2 August 1921 to reduce the influence of the ras and moderate socialist violence.

It aimed to consolidate fascist power while appearing to control violence.

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23
Q

What was the significance of the Acerbo Law?

A

It allowed the party with 25% of votes to receive 2/3 of seats, facilitating the fascists’ rise to power through legal means.

This law was supported by various political factions seeking stability.

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24
Q

What was the outcome of the Aventine Secession?

A

150 Anti-Fascists walked out of parliament, but the king refused to dismiss Mussolini, fearing a socialist revolution.

This incident highlighted the political ineptitude of the Liberal Government.

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25
What actions did Mussolini take to establish his personal dictatorship?
Used traditional state machinery and threatened to shut down parliament, requesting emergency powers. ## Footnote This culminated in the establishment of a Fascist Grand Council.
26
What changes occurred in local government under Mussolini's regime?
Elected officials replaced by appointed Fascist officials (podesta) to avoid influence from radical ras. ## Footnote This was part of Mussolini's consolidation of power.
27
Fill in the blank: Mussolini dropped the more leftist, anti-clerical elements of his Party to gain the support of the _______.
[Catholic Party] ## Footnote This was crucial for Mussolini as he positioned himself against the communist threat.
28
What was the response of the press to Mussolini's regime?
Press censorship laws were enacted, and journalists had to be registered with the Fascist Party. ## Footnote This ensured control over public discourse and suppressed dissent.
29
What event led to Mussolini taking responsibility for the death of Giacomo Matteoti?
The discovery of Matteoti's body on 18 August 1924 following his speech attacking the election process. ## Footnote Mussolini's admission was part of a power grab rather than a genuine confession.
30
What was established in December 1925 to strengthen Mussolini's control?
The Legge Fascistissime, banning opposition political powers and creating a new head of government post specifically for Mussolini. ## Footnote This law solidified the fascist regime's repression of dissent.
31
What was the political context of Mussolini's appointment as Prime Minister?
He was already in the Chamber of Deputies, and his party had transformed into the National Fascist Party in 1921. ## Footnote His rise was facilitated by the failure of the Liberal government to address Italy's issues.
32
What action did Mussolini take on 24 December 1925 regarding his position in government?
Mussolini made himself head of government and issued a decree allowing him to issue decrees without parliamentary approval ## Footnote He insisted on being called Il Duce.
33
What significant change occurred in the Fascist Party after 1925?
There were no Fascist Congress Meetings after 1925, indicating the party had become non-political and de-radicalised.
34
What was the Rocco Law of April 1926?
It outlawed workers’ strikes and employer’s lookouts.
35
What was established in October 1926 to try political cases?
The Special Tribunal for the Defence of the State.
36
True or False: Political parties were banned by formal decree in Italy during Mussolini's regime.
True
37
Fill in the blank: Mussolini formed a secret police force known as the _______ in 1927.
OVRA
38
What was the purpose of the CEKA created in April 1924?
To engage in political violence and suppress opposition, including assassinations.
39
What was Mussolini's aim regarding the PPI?
To weaken the position of the PPI.
40
What incident in August 1923 involved Mussolini demanding compensation from Greece?
The Corfu Incident.
41
What was the primary goal of Mussolini's 'Battle for Births'?
To increase the Italian population.
42
What was the outcome of Mussolini's policies on birth rates?
The birth rate actually declined from 29.9 per 1000 in 1925 to 23.1 per 1000 in the 1940s.
43
What was the significance of the Gentile Education Act of February 1923?
It restored compulsory religious education in schools.
44
Fill in the blank: Mussolini's government made use of _______ to promote his image and policies.
propaganda
45
What was the main purpose of the National Council of Corporations established in March 1930?
To serve as an advisory body representing various branches of Italian society.
46
What was the outcome of Mussolini's attempts to suppress Catholic youth organizations?
He faced public protests and had to reverse some of his decisions.
47
True or False: Mussolini's regime successfully controlled all aspects of Italian life.
False
48
What did Mussolini do to strengthen his control over the military?
He created the National Fascist Militia (MVSN) and ensured loyalty to himself.
49
What was the effect of Mussolini's economic policies on taxation?
He reduced government control on industry and trade and cut taxation to please the elites.
50
What was the impact of the OVRA during Mussolini's regime?
Between 1927 and 1940, 4000 were arrested and 10 were sentenced to death.
51
Fill in the blank: Mussolini's regime aimed for _______ or economic self-sufficiency.
autarky
52
What was the fate of the press and media under Mussolini's rule?
Censorship ensured that opponents were not heard.
53
What was the public reaction to Mussolini's invasion of Corfu?
Many viewed Mussolini as a national hero despite international condemnation.
54
What happened to political opponents under Mussolini's regime?
They were arrested, exiled, or faced violence.
55
What was the main goal of the 'Battle against the Mafia' initiated by Mussolini?
To drive mafia leaders underground and reduce crime.
56
Who stated that 'the publicity harnessed the support of the masses to the regime'?
Historian Edward Townley
57
What was Mussolini's title that emphasized his supremacy?
Il Duce
58
What media did Mussolini use to promote his image?
* Movies * Radio programmes * Music
59
What did Mussolini provide to schools and communal villages?
Radios
60
What did Mussolini's propaganda aim to convince Italians of?
The real achievements of fascism
61
How did Mussolini portray himself in photographs?
As athletic, riding horses over high hurdles
62
What claim did Fascist newspapers make about Mussolini's work hours?
That he spent twenty hours per day working for Italy
63
What was Mussolini's representation as a leader?
Omnipotent and indispensable leader
64
What did Mussolini use to display the Corfu Crisis?
Propaganda to present it as a success
65
What happened to anti-Fascist newspapers in 1926?
They were banned
66
How did E.R. Tannenbaum describe the fascist period?
The rule of the journalists
67
What slogan was popularized in Fascist newspapers?
'Mussolini is always right'
68
What was the compulsory youth organization established by Mussolini in 1926?
To indoctrinate youth with Fascist propaganda
69
What significant speech did Mussolini make in 1925?
A speech broadcasted via radio
70
What cultural movement linked Mussolini to the Old Roman Empire?
Romanita Movement
71
What was the aim of the Dopolovaro system established in May 1925?
To placate workers through leisure activities
72
What was the membership of the Dopolovaro system by 1939?
4 million members
73
What was the Royal Academy of Italy criticized for?
Being conformist, old-fashioned, and lifeless
74
Who created the Enciclopedia Italiana in the 1930s?
Mussolini
75
What was the l’inquadramento movement?
To expand Fascist membership among the masses
76
What was the significance of Italy's 12 Olympic gold medals in 1932?
It showcased Italian virility
77
Who took over the press office and renamed it in 1935?
Galleazzo Ciano
78
What were popular slogans during Mussolini's regime?
* 'Believe, Obey, Fight' * 'Mussolini is always right'
79
What was the purpose of mass rallies and meetings?
To create crowd psychology and support for Mussolini
80
What was Mussolini's goal in the Spanish Civil War?
To gain military glory and expand fascism
81
What pact did Mussolini sign with Hitler in May 1939?
Pact of Steel
82
What was Mussolini's stance on the Anschluss with Austria?
He informed Hitler he would not oppose it
83
What did Mussolini's invasion of Abyssinia aim to achieve?
To expand Italian territories in Africa
84
What was the outcome of the Abyssinian invasion for Mussolini?
It established Italian East Africa but was costly and met with resistance
85
What was the significance of the Rome-Berlin Axis?
It solidified the alliance between Italy and Germany
86
What was the impact of the Hoare-Laval Pact?
It promised two-thirds of Abyssinia to Mussolini but faced sanctions
87
What was Mussolini's foreign policy described as?
Incoherent
88
What was the nature of the alliance between Italy and Germany according to Townley?
An open-ended commitment, not a defensive alliance ## Footnote Germany requested this alliance to neutralise the Balkans.
89
How many divisions did Mussolini believe Italy had ready for war?
150 army divisions ## Footnote In reality, only 10 divisions (700,000 soldiers) were ready by WW1.
90
What percentage of Italian submarines were destroyed within the first 3 weeks of war?
30% ## Footnote This was part of the overall military unpreparedness.
91
What was the military budget as a percentage of Italy's national income?
11.8% ## Footnote 30% of the government budget was spent on military.
92
What was the decrease in industrial production during this period?
35% decrease ## Footnote This was alongside a 25% decrease in agricultural output.
93
What was the result of Mussolini's military spending on tanks?
Only 1500 armoured and light tanks, fewer than 100 heavy tanks ## Footnote This indicates a significant lack of modern military equipment.
94
What led to the emergence of the black market in Italy during the war?
Food rationing and strikes ## Footnote Rationing included only 150 grams of bread per person.
95
When did Italy declare neutrality in World War II?
1 September 1939 ## Footnote Mussolini avoided using the word 'neutrality' to maintain Italy's image.
96
What was Mussolini's motivation for joining the war in April 1940?
To share in the German victory and avoid German hegemony ## Footnote He feared Italy would become a second-class nation.
97
What happened on 10 June 1940?
Mussolini declared war on Britain and France ## Footnote He believed France would soon surrender to Germany.
98
What was the outcome of Mussolini's invasion of Greece?
Greece counter-attacked and invaded Albania ## Footnote Mussolini underestimated the Greek army's size and capacity.
99
What was the purpose of the Battle for Grain?
To achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production ## Footnote It was implemented after a poor harvest in 1924.
100
What did Mussolini claim about Italy's military capabilities in his speech on 30 March 1938?
That he had 9 million men who could be mobilised quickly for war ## Footnote He expected a 'very quick war'.
101
What was the Rocco Law introduced in 1926?
It made strikes illegal and ensured disputes were settled in special labour courts ## Footnote It aimed to control labor relations under Mussolini's regime.
102
What was the impact of the Great Depression on employment in Italy?
Over 1 million were unemployed in 1933 ## Footnote Mussolini's propaganda often undermined the actual levels of unemployment.
103
What was the result of the 'Battle for Land' initiative?
No significant change in land ownership distribution ## Footnote The richest 0.5% still owned 41.9% of farming land.
104
What was the Italian military's performance in the invasion of Russia?
Led to great losses due to lack of tanks and inadequate motor transport ## Footnote Mussolini acted against German instructions by sending large forces to the Eastern Front.
105
What was the outcome of Mussolini's military engagements in Egypt?
Over 100,000 Italian soldiers were captured by British forces ## Footnote Italian forces were driven out nearly 1000 miles into Libya.
106
What was the significance of the National Council of Corporations (NCC) established by Mussolini?
It represented the seven largest corporations in Italy ## Footnote Mussolini resumed control of corporations in 1932, highlighting centralization of power.
107
What was a key feature of the corporate state Mussolini established?
It appeared decentralized but aimed for centralization of power ## Footnote Corporations were meant to represent various economic sectors.
108
What was the effect of the Grain Doubled policy by 1939?
Italy became self-sufficient in wheat, but fruit and wine exports dropped. ## Footnote Large farmers from the Po Valley benefitted most, and cattle production fell by 20% between 1919 and 1930.
109
What was the 'Battle of the lira'?
'Battle of the lira' refers to the overvaluation of the lira, where Mussolini claimed 92 lira equaled 1 pound, while it was actually 150. ## Footnote This led to increased unemployment and made Italian goods more expensive.
110
What was the impact of the Quota Novanta policy?
It undermined Mussolini's free trade policies and increased unemployment, particularly in car exports. ## Footnote Imports became cheaper benefiting companies reliant on raw materials.
111
What was promised in 1924 regarding the southern problem?
Mussolini promised to build hundreds of new villages in Sicily and the south to eradicate poverty. ## Footnote However, nothing was built, and the southern problem persisted.
112
What was the economic growth rate between 1925-1940?
The economic growth rate was stagnant at only 0.8%. ## Footnote This is significantly lower compared to 3.8% growth between 1901-1925.
113
What educational reforms were introduced by Giovanni Gentile?
Gentile emphasized fascist history and culture in education and imposed a strict curriculum. ## Footnote He also created difficult exams to limit access to secondary and university education.
114
What was the Charter of Labour and when was it established?
The Charter of Labour, established in 1927, granted minimum wage. ## Footnote It was part of Mussolini's economic policies.
115
What was the Lateran Pact of 1929?
The Lateran Pact created Vatican City, declared Catholicism as the only state religion, and outlawed divorce. ## Footnote It also provided the Pope with financial compensation for losses since the Italian seizure of Rome.
116
What were the consequences of the anti-Semitic policies introduced by Mussolini in 1938?
Foreign Jews were banned from entering Italy, and Italian Jews were barred from public and academic positions. ## Footnote These policies were influenced by Nazi Germany and led to significant Jewish emigration.
117
What was the 'Battle for births' policy?
The 'Battle for births' aimed to increase Italy's population but made women second-class citizens. ## Footnote A decree limited female employment and emphasized traditional roles for women.
118
What was the impact of the Great Depression on agricultural wages?
Agricultural wages fell by over 30% during the Great Depression. ## Footnote This contributed to rural poverty and migration to urban slums.
119
What was the Vidoni Palace Pact?
The Vidoni Palace Pact restricted representation to Confindustria and the Confederation of Fascist Syndicates, banning socialist trade unions. ## Footnote This limited workers' ability to defend their rights.
120
How did Mussolini maintain control over education?
Mussolini imposed oaths of loyalty on teachers and established fascist control over school curricula. ## Footnote By 1939, only one official history textbook was allowed in schools.
121
What was the role of women in Mussolini's regime?
Women were discouraged from higher education and restricted to domestic roles but participated in welfare organizations. ## Footnote Their employment opportunities were limited, and they were seen as important for propaganda.
122
What was Mussolini's view on democracy?
Mussolini believed that 'democracy is beautiful in theory; in practice it is a fallacy.' ## Footnote He viewed totalitarianism as a more effective form of governance.
123
What was the public response to Mussolini's regime?
Only 6% of Italians were in the Fascist Party, indicating limited support among the population. ## Footnote Many joined for convenience rather than conviction.
124
What was Mussolini's statement regarding the state?
Mussolini stated, 'All within the state, nothing outside the state, nothing against the state.' ## Footnote This reflects his totalitarian ideology.

Italy (1 decks)

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