The Rise Of Mussolini And Fascism

Question 1

Mussolini’s background and early fascist movement (Fasi di combattimento)

Answer 1

Mussolini- former socialist, expelled from PSI for supporting WW1
Founded Fasi di combattimento in 1919 in Milan
Movement combined nationalism, anti-socialism, and militarism
Attracted war veterans, nationalists, and middle class conservatives
Used violence + intimidation through Fascist squads (Blackshirts)
Initial electoral failure in 1919, gained support amid unrest

Question 2

Blackshirts and the use of violence

Answer 2

Founded in 1919 by Mussolini as fascist paramilitary
Ultra-nationalist, anti-communist, fascist
Used beatings, arson, + murder against socialists + opponents
Backed by the elites + tolerated by police/army
Helped Mussolini seize power
Became official state militia in 1923
Normalised political violence in fascist regimes

Question 3

March on Rome (1922) + Mussolini’s appointment as Prime Minister

Answer 3

October 1922
Fascist Blackshirts marched on Rome
Goal was to force Mussolini’s rise to power
King refused martial law, invited Mussolini to form government
Mussolini became Prime Minister on Oct 30,1922
Start of fascist rule in ital