What is Fascism?

3. Fascism in Italy in the 20th Century

After World War I, Italy was in crisis. The country lost many lives and gained little from the peace treaty. In 1919, poet and war hero Gabriele D’Annunzio led a group of former soldiers to seize the city of Fiume, claiming it for Italy. He ruled it for over a year without official approval, using rallies, uniforms, and strict control to inspire loyalty. His short rule introduced ideas that would shape fascism: nationalism, violence, censorship, and a leader with unchecked power.

Though D’Annunzio eventually lost control, his experiment paved the way for a more lasting fascist regime