Topic Four (1.4): Reasons for Mussolini’s Appointment as Prime Minister
Introduction
You need to understand the stages by which Mussolini gained power between 1920 and 1922.
These are:
- establishing a broader appeal;
- intimidation;
- the March on Rome and its significance;
- the role of Victor Emmanuel III;
- Mussolini’s appointment as Prime Minister.
Read and Make Notes
Read pages 114 to 115 in European Dictatorships 1918-1945 and make notes on the topic under the headings above, to construct an overview.
Tasks
- Use the following resources to add detail to each development:
READ – Origins of the Fascist Party (PDF) Links to an external site.
READ – The March on Rome (History Learning Site) Links to an external site.
READ – Mussolini’s March on Rome (PDF) Links to an external site.
READ – Mussolini’s ‘March’ on Rome 80 Years On (BBC) Links to an external site.
- Now answer the following questions:
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- Why did the King let Mussolini have dictatorial powers?
- What were Mussolini’s motives for creating the ‘Myth of the March’?
Watch
Now watch the following video:
WATCH – Mussolini Becomes Prime Minister (Khan Academy) Links to an external site.
Reflect
- Look at this list of reasons for the rise of the Fascists (1920-22). Can you add any others?
- Can you explain each and support with a specific example?
- Disgust in Italy at the terms of the Treaty of Saint-Germain;
- The Fascists represented a means to stop the socialists and the communists;
- Mussolini was backed by wealthy industrialists and landowners;
- Support from Pope Pius XI and the Vatican;
- Lack of faith in Italy’s institutions;
- Economic issues;
- After the March on Rome, the King offered the post of Prime Minister to Mussolini;
- Intimidated opponents;
- The complicity of the police and the army.
- Then try to group into bigger themes – we suggest:
- The strengths of the Fascists;
- The weaknesses of Liberal Italy by 1922;
- The support of Italian elites;
- The impact of the First World War.
- Which do you see as most crucial? Explain why.
- Which factor does this conclusion prioritise?
- Plan an answer to the following question: ‘How far do you agree that Mussolini became Prime Minister in 1922 because the Fascists could offer strong government?’ (30 marks)
- See possible factors in the following document:
CHECK – Topic 1.4 Answer Sheet Download CHECK – Topic 1.4 Answer Sheet
Stretch Activity
Summarise the argument here: