Mussolini: From Prime Minister to Dictator, 1922-1928 Flashcards
What tools did Mussolini use to control support?
- Cult of Personality
- Tight control of media (newspaper, television, radio)
- Secret police used
- Propaganda
- Removal of opposition
How and why did Victor Emmanuel support Mussolini?
Victor Emmanuel handed over power to Mussolini in 1922, because he needed him to secure his own position
Why did Mussolini need the support of Victor Emmanuel?
Mussolini needed the support of Victor Emmanuel to ensure the armed forces would support him
How long was it until Victor Emmanuel stood up to Mussolini?
It was not until 1943 that Emmanuel stood up to Mussolini, returning to Parliament those powers which Mussolini had taken from them
Why did the armed forces support Mussolini?
The armed forces supported Mussolini’s aim to restore national greatness and pursue an active, aggressive foreign policy
How did the armed forces view Mussolini’s decision to assume the position of War Minister in 1925?
They supported his decision to become War Minister in 1925
Which Mussolini policies particularly pleased the armed forces?
Mussolini’s:
- Attacks on left-wing dissidents
- Strong line on law and order
- Abandonment of reducing the size of the army
were all very popular with the armed forces
Which military successes raised the profile of the armed forces in Italian society?
Abyssinia, Vittorrio Veneto, other conquests in Africa
Why did industrialists support Mussolini?
Industrialists (like Pirelli and Olivetti) were pleased by the Fascist strike-breaking activities and their opposition to trade unions
Who else supported Fascist attacks on left wing groups?
Police officers, landlords and middle class business people all welcomed Fascist attacks on left wing groups
