13.3 Fascism Rises in Europe

fascism

A new, militant political movement emphasizing loyalty to the state and obedience to its leader

fascism vs. communism

fascism: no clearly defined theory or program; focused on extreme nationalism

communism: emphasis on class struggle

What key idea did most fascists share?

An extreme form of nationalism—loyalty to one’s country.

What did fascists believe about peaceful states?

they were doomed to be conquered

To what kind of leader did fascists pledge their loyalty?

An authoritarian leader who guided and brought order to the state.

symbolic elements of fascist movements

• uniforms of a certain color

• special salutes

• mass rallies

Name one cultural characteristic of fascism.

authoritarianism

Name a basic principle of fascism.

The state is more important than the individual.

What kind of leader was central to fascist ideology?

A charismatic, action-oriented leader.

Which social groups supported fascism?

• middle class

• industrialists

• military

How were economic functions controlled under fascism?

By state corporations or directly by the state.

political characteristics of fascism

• nationalism

• one-party rule

• racism (in the case of Nazism)

fascist states

Italy, Spain, Germany

similarities between fascism & communism

• ruled by dictators

• allowed only 1 political party

• denied individual rights

• placed the state as supreme

How did fascists view the organization of society?

They believed each class had its own place and function rather than seeking a classless society.

What types of individuals typically composed fascist parties?

• aristocrats

• industrialists

• war veterans

• lower middle class

Italy’s fascist leader

Benito Mussolini

What event helped fuel the rise of fascism in Italy?

Disappointment over the failure to win large territorial gains at the 1919 Paris Peace Conference.

Which economic problems contributed to Mussolini’s rise?

• rising inflation

• unemployment

Mussolini’s promise to the Italian people

rescue Italy by reviving its economy and rebuilding its armed forces

When was the Fascist Party founded by Mussolini?

1919

How did Mussolini gain popular support?

By publicly criticizing the government and playing on the fear of a workers’ revolt.

Which groups supported Mussolini’s ascent?

• middle classes

• aristocracy

• industrial leaders

Mussolini’s unique speech tactic

He chose elevated locations, like balconies, to tower over the crowd.

What kind of language did Mussolini use in his speeches?

Aggressive words such as “war” and “power” to inspire his audience.

What significant event took place in October 1922 in Italy?

About 30,000 fascists marched on Rome.

king who appointed Mussolini

King Victor Emmanuel III

How did Mussolini come to power?

He took power “legally” after widespread violence and a threatened uprising.

What title did Mussolini earn after rising to power?

Il Duce

measures Mussolini took in power

• abolished democracy

• outlawed all political parties except the Fascists

ways Mussolini enforced his policies

• terror

• violence

• censorship

• secret police

How did Mussolini try to control Italy’s economy?

By allying the Fascists with industrialists and large landowners.

Which future dictator’s early life was marked by disappointment before rising to power?

Hitler

What recognition did Hitler receive for his service in World War I?

The Iron Cross, awarded twice for bravery.

In what year did Hitler join a small right-wing political group?

1919

What did Hitler’s political group later become known as?

The National Socialist German Workers’ Party, or the Nazi Party.

nickname for Nazi private militia

storm troopers; Brown Shirts

Hitler’s title as the head of the Nazi Party

Der Führer

What event in 1923 involved Hitler and the Nazis in Munich?

A failed coup attempt to seize power.

time Hitler spent in prison after the failed coup

<9 months

book Hitler wrote in jail

Mein Kampf (My Struggle)

What controversial claim did Hitler make about the German people in Mein Kampf?

That Germans, whom he called “Aryans,” were a master race.

How did Hitler view the Versailles Treaty?

As an outrage that needed to be overturned.

What common tactic did both Mussolini and Hitler use to sway large audiences?

Fiery oratory accompanied by theatrical gestures and body movements.

How did Hitler modify his speech delivery during public addresses?

He started in a normal voice and gradually raised his volume to a loud, angry outburst.

How did Hitler legally come to power in Germany?

Conservative leaders advised President Hindenburg to name him Chancellor in 1933.

What major incident occurred six days before the 1933 election in Germany?

A fire destroyed the Reichstag building.

Who did the Nazis blame for the Reichstag fire?

communists

What was one of the main objectives of Hitler’s propaganda efforts?

To shape public opinion and win praise by controlling the press, radio, and culture.