Booklet 3 - (1919 - 1922) The development of Fascism and the rise to power of Mussolini

Question 1

Why did violence become so important in the fascist rise to power?

Answer 1

• It enabled fascist support and intimidation, diminishing socialist power
• coercing people to support Mussolini
• It also appealed to extremists and attracted a variety of political groups.

Question 2

Who supported the fascists and why?

Answer 2

• Nationalist extremists: attracted to violence and revolution.
• Nationalists: Mussolini’s party aimed to protect the bourgeoisie, middle class, and industrialists.
• Some socialists: coerced or swayed by fascist violence.

Question 3

How and why did the fascist programme change over time?

Answer 3

Mussolini’s rise to power led to increased fascist violence and greater mob support, which influenced the party’s policies and its appeal.

Question 4

What is Fasci di Combattimento?

Answer 4

“Italian fighting leagues” – extremist fascist support groups using violence to attack political opponents.

Question 5

Who were the Squadristi?

Answer 5

Parliamentary squads of the fascist parties, often made up of gangs of teenage boy vigilantes.

Question 6

What were the Ras in the context of fascism?

Answer 6

Local leaders of the Squadristi.

Question 7

What was Avanti!?

Answer 7

A socialist newspaper established in 1896.

Question 8

What does PNF stand for?

Answer 8

Partito Nazionale Fascista (National Fascist Party).

Question 9

What role did the Carabinieri play under Mussolini?

Answer 9

The Carabinieri were one of the police forces tasked with suppressing fascist opposition.

Question 10

What was the “New Programme” in fascist doctrine?

Answer 10

A policy to convert popular socialist policies (e.g., 8-hour working day) to gain public support for the fascists.

Question 11

Why would Mussolini exaggerate the threat of socialism?

Answer 11

To create urgency for suppressing socialists, justify violence, and rally broader support (e.g., from Catholics) for the fascist cause.

Question 12

What was the most significant factor in the rise of fascism in Italy and why?

Answer 12

The use of force and violence – it kept opposition weak and intimidated people into supporting Mussolini, consolidating his power and enabling the establishment of a dictatorship.

Question 13

Why was Mussolini appointed Prime Minister in 1922?

Answer 13

Due to the lack of opposition in parliament after the Aventine Secession, allowing Mussolini to be appointed without significant opposition.

Question 14

what is the march on rome?

Answer 14

A myth suggesting fascists stormed Rome in masses to seize power, when in fact Mussolini was appointed PM and a few supporters showed up later to support him.

Question 15

What were the Black Shirts in the context of Mussolini’s regime?

Answer 15

The uniform adopted by Mussolini’s supporters, symbolizing unity and turning individuals into one military force.

Question 16

What role did Cesare de Vecchi play in the rise of fascism?

Answer 16

An Italian soldier and fascist politician, elected to the Chamber of Deputies in 1921, supporting Mussolini’s rise.

Question 17

Who was Italo Balbo and what was his role in fascism?

Answer 17

A fascist leader and Blackshirt who became Marshal of the Air Force. He was seen as a rival by Mussolini for his popularity and opposition to certain policies.

Question 18

What was Luigi Facta’s role during Mussolini’s rise?

Answer 18

A member of the Liberal Party and Minister of Finance, he was involved in the Italian government during the period leading to Mussolini’s rise.

Question 19

How did King Victor Emmanuel III contribute to Mussolini’s rise?

Answer 19

The King considered Mussolini “not his problem,” which allowed Mussolini to gain power without opposition from the monarchy.

Question 20

What was the role of Salandra in Italian politics?

Answer 20

He played no further role in the war but was part of the Italian delegation to the 1919 Paris Peace Conference.

Question 21

How did Giolitti influence Mussolini’s rise to power?

Answer 21

As Prime Minister in 1920, Giolitti tried to hold onto the liberal coalition, but the diminishing power of liberals allowed Mussolini to gain influence.

Question 22

What role did the Duke of Aosta play during Mussolini’s rise?

Answer 22

He was a supporter of Mussolini and part of the royal family, which influenced King Victor Emmanuel III’s decision to allow Mussolini to rise to power.