Peventing The Emergence Of Rivals And The Role Of The PNF in The State Flashcards
Who occupied the most senior posts in government and what did party membership look like by the mid 30’s
Those who occupied the most senior posts were notable for their loyalty rather than their ability.
Party membership consisted overwhelmingly of white-collar state employees (people who saw PNF as a way of securing safe job in government) Workers and peasants now a tiny minority.
What happened to potential rivals and what did others recognise?
Mussolini didn’t promote potential rivals – men of ability were far from the centre of power. Eg Dino Grandi, a potential successor, was despatched to London as an Ambassador.
Others, recognised that they could keep provincial power by supporting Mussolini, and that they were dependent on him to maintain their power.
No significant rivals ever emerged.
What had the PNF become and where did it have roles
The PNF had become a bureaucratic institution, and had lost much of its previous dynamism. It had a role in the areas of education, leisure and propaganda to make Italians obedient Fascists.
What did PNF roles in different sectors lead to
led to tensions between the Party and the State. Eg In the Army, there were disputes between the regular army and the national militia. Mussolini was given great power as it was he who resolved these disputes
What effect did disputes have on the government
Made government slow and inefficient, as so many matters awaited Mussolini’s personal decision, it was impossible for him to ensure that decisions were being made as he intended. When decisions were taken, they were often rushed and ill-thought.
Even if he had supreme personal power, below him there was confusion, delay and incompetence.
