Mussolini's consolidation of power (1922-24)

Question 1

What six problems did Mussolini face in 1922?

Answer 1

• Only four Fascists in Cabinet
• Only 35 Fascists in 535 member Chamber of Deputies
• Only won 7% of votes through violence
• Likely to only last 2 years
• Had little experience and no policies
• Own supporters were divided

Question 2

When was Mussolini granted emergency powers?

Answer 2

November 1922

Question 3

Why was Mussolini’s position weak?

Answer 3

King could dismiss him at any point

Question 4

When was the Acerbo Law passed?

Answer 4

July 1923

Question 5

By how many votes was the Acerbo Law passed?

Answer 5

305 to 40

Question 6

How did the Fascists influence voting?

Answer 6

• Militia set up outside voting ballots
• Opponents killed
• Hostile voters intimidated

Question 7

What percent of the vote did Fascism win in 1924?

Answer 7

66% = 275 deputies

Question 8

How did Mussolini gain the support of the monarchy?

Answer 8

Respected its role

Question 9

How did Mussolini gain the support of the workers?

Answer 9

Jobs provided in growing bureaucracy

Question 10

How did Mussolini gain the support of the landowners?

Answer 10

Abandoned agrarian reform plans

Question 11

How did Mussolini gain the support of the industry?

Answer 11

Fascist trade unions encouraged

Question 12

How did Mussolini gain the support of the Fascists?

Answer 12

Assertive foreign policy

Question 13

How did Mussolini gain the support of the Church?

Answer 13

Raised priests’ salaries and made minor concessions

Question 14

How did Mussolini gain the support of all?

Answer 14

Relaxed state controls and adopted laissez-faire policies