Mussolini and the church Flashcards
Mussolini early negative influence regarding the church was his…
father - an anti clerical socialist
Mussolini referred to Catholic priests early in his journalistic career as
black germs
The issue of the church not recognising the new Italian monarchy since 1870 was known as
the roman question
Which priest lead popolari as part of an anti fascist coalition ?
Don Sturzo
Who competed with Fascist syndicates, leading to further tension ?
Catholic TUs
Which rival youth group competed with Mussolini’s Ballilia?
Catholic action
After 1922, the Catholic church saw the benefit of a fascist alliance because
they were protection against godless socialists and ignorant liberals
what did Mussolini renounce in 1922
Aetheism
What was banned in public ?
swearing
What did Pope Pius order his clergy to do in 1923 ?
remain neutral and not support Popolari
Which of the popes ministers did Mussolini secretly meet with to arrange a pact ?
Gasparri
In June 1923 what action against Popolari did the Pope take
He sacked Don Sturzo as leader
Why did the Pope support Mussolini over the Matteoti crisis ?
He thought Mussolini’s weakened position would allow him to manipulate him
Why did the Pope support Mussolini over the Matteoti crisis ?
He feared Mussolini’s fall would bring in a hard left government
How did Mussolini win over the catholic church following the removal of popolari ?
bapitized his children, re affirmed his vows, arranged the marriage of his daughter in St Peters
Why by 1926 was the church open to a deal with Mussolini ?
He was clearly in control, without opposition and wasn’t going to be removed