Mussolini deposed Flashcards
plans
Plan to depose Mussolini began 1942; Grandi and Ciano raised idea of peace with the Allies
Allies said they would not offer armistice with Mussolini in power
Grandi needed king’s support as only he could dismiss Mussolini
King opened secret talks with Allies through the Vatican
29 May
President Roosevelt’s negotiator said USA would negotiate peace deal with Italy if king dismissed Mussolini
Invasion forced fascists to act
16 July: deputation of fascists met Mussolini and convinced him to call Grand Council meeting for 24 July. Grandi spent 8 days drafting resolution that called for Mussolini’s removal and government to be placed in hands of king. Canvassed support among other fascists to ensure vote for removal
King’s advisors, army generals and heads of police informed- their support was essential
King accepted decision, but Grandi could not be sure he would follow through
Grand Council
Grand Council had not met since September 1939 and had always operated as Mussolini’s organisation- no need for him to even accept their vote or listen to them and could arrest anyone he wished
start of meeting
Mussolini began meeting with 2 hour rambling speech on Italy’s military situation. Other fascists spoke, voicing concern about situation and Mussolini’s position
After nine hours of discussion, Grandi’s resolution passed by 19:7 votes.
5pm
5 o’clock next day: met king for formal meeting; believed he could get royal agreement to shuffle ministries and perhaps give up his military command to the king, but remain head of government
DISMISSAL
To Mussolini’s surprise, king said he decided to dismiss Mussolini and replace with Badoglio. Mussolini attempted to leave meeting but was met by Admiral Franco Maugeri, who put him in the back of an ambulance and took him to priso
Maugeri
Maugeri described Mussolini as looking like a ‘wry, sad and even pathetic clown’
