Anti-Semitic Decrees

Question 1

Was the introduction of antisemitic decrees popular when introduced in 1927?

Answer 1

• No, largely unpopular
• Little to no antisemitic rhetoric from Italian fascism
• Italian fascism had no particular focus on race (unlike Nazism)

Question 2

What are examples of increased repression towards jews?

Answer 2

• From 1938 foreign jews were to be deported
• Over next 3 years 6,000 jews were deported
• Jewish businesses were forced to close down

Question 3

What did Mussolini believe a larger focus on antisemitic beliefs would do for Italy?

Answer 3

• Create a more militaristic and radicalised society through a unification of their hatred
• Implement the idea that Italian race was superior

Question 4

Which elites disagreed with the increased antisemitism?

Answer 4

• Pope condemned the antisemitic policies as an un-Italian attempt to copy Nazi Germany

Question 5

How did Italian people view the more radical policies?

Answer 5

• Viewed the change as a worrying sign of Italy’s growing weakness and sub-ordination to Germany policy