Fascism: The Similarities Between Mussolini And Nazi Germany

Fascism, defined as a form of radical authoritarian nationalism, was a movement which rose to prominence in both Italy and Germany during the inter-war period. Originating in Italy in 1919, as developed by Benito Mussolini, it later expanded into other European countries, quickly finding its place within Hitler’s movement of Nazism. It was found that each regime was able to develop due to government instability and citizen unrest. Despite seemingly following Mussolini’s footsteps, Hitler and his party were arguably much more radical and ruthless. This idea regarding the varying natures of the movements is suggested by Christian Goeschel when he states “Mussolini’s regime was harmless if compared to the Third Reich” .
Italy, following the First
Despite this claim, many similarities and common denominators can be found between the two regimes, as seen in the historical timelines of their developments. Both, for starters, valued the rejection of parliamentary and governing democracy, and held anti-Bolshevik views and the fear of general communism. Both movements profited from the nations’ vulnerabilities via the use of a charismatic leader, and it can already be seen how the Nazi regime potentially mimicked the core of Fascism. The two regimes were able to unite a nation through core ideological issues and were appealing due to their promises of bringing the nations back to their roots. Goeschel also states “both regimes … were essentially driven by violence and destruction, not by international diplomacy” . Tying into the similarities, both the Mussolini and Hitler regimes contain some of the main Fascist characters, as suggested by Dr. Lawrence Britt. These include: powerful, continuing nationalism through mottos, symbols and propaganda; Disdain for the recognition of Human Rights, such as ignoring torture and execution; Identification of an enemy as a unifying cause (e.g. Jews); Rampant sexism and suppression of divorce, abortion and homosexuality; Controlled mass media through censorship; Obsession with national security; Suppression or elimination of labour unions; Obsession with crime and punishment, as seen through the unlimited power of the Black shirts and the SS; and rampant