Explain the reasons for the rise of Fascism Essay Example for Free

Explain the reasons for the rise of Fascism EssayFascism appealed to the Italian public for various reasons. Many Italians regarded the existing system under the Liberal government as faltering and corrupt and Fascism promised a strong government. During the war the divisions between neutra discovers and interventionists were so severe that they couldnt work unitedly against a common enemy. Elections were managed, especially in the South. All governments were short-lived coalitions, because proportional representation and universal young-begetting(prenominal) suffrage meant that it was next to impossible to get a majority. In 1921 the Fascists were included in the Giolittis list of election candidates which gave them more respectability. Fascist ideology was vague, promising something for everyone it seemed to offer an end to class divisions. Some like its anti-socialism and another(prenominal)s liked its revolutionary syndicalism. Young people especially were attracted by t he emphasis on change.The Fascists also had the avow of influential people and groups, such as the King. The King was disillusioned with parliamentary leadership and feared a left-wing coup. Mussolinis participation in government would have provided welcome strength against the left wing threat. In addition, the King doubted the loyalty of the army if it were called upon to challenge the Fascists. He was cowardly and pessimistic.Mussolini also had to foster good traffic with the papistic Catholic Church simply because, regardless of his dictatorship, the Roman Catholic Church was such a powerful institution in Italy. The church feared communism and were attracted to Mussolinis promises to restore law and order to Italy. In 1921 Mussolini publically announced his opposition to divorce and promised to heal the rift between church and state the Roman Question. Pope Pius XI was friendly with Mussolini and as bishop of Milan allowed Fascist banners in a church. He urged the need for smooth settlement.Finally, the March on Rome was the ultimate display of Fascist power. The Fascist squads were organised into militia and plans were raddled up to seize the main towns and cities of northern and central Italy. Around 30,000 Fascists would then converge on the slap-up and install themselves in power. On the night 27th October, Fascist squads seized town halls, telephone exchanges and railway send throughout northern Italy. The King refused to allow martial law that would have sanctioned the use of major power against the Fascists. This would prove to be a fateful decision it was a sign the King lacked confidence in his government.On hearing the Kings refusal, Factas government resigned. The King approached Salandra, a veteran ultraconservative Liberal, and asked him to form a new government. Salandra attempted to negotiate with the Fascists, offering them a few cabinet posts, only when it soon became apparent that Mussolini would accept nothing less than Prim e Minister. With other liberal leaders contrasted to Salandra, the King realised he needed a different man. In the absence of any other viable candidate Mussolini was asked on the 29th October to become Prime Minister of Italy.