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# The Fascism The term "Fascism" is a historical term. The highest authorities of the Etruscans and later the Roman Empire used fasces (bundles of rods with an axe) as a symbol of their power. The term is also used to describe various European political systems which share some similarities but a...

# The Fascism The term "Fascism" is a historical term. The highest authorities of the Etruscans and later the Roman Empire used fasces (bundles of rods with an axe) as a symbol of their power. The term is also used to describe various European political systems which share some similarities but also have differences. ## Italy In the aftermath of World War I, there was fear of Communism in Italy, much like other European countries. Benito Mussolini, took advantage of this fear. In 1919, he created a fascist party. In 1922, this party staged a march on Rome to pressure the existing government. Eventually, the king appointed Mussolini to form a new government to avert further conflict. Mussolini's party took control, and other political parties were eliminated. Italy became a dictatorship. Political opponents were persecuted and killed. Language and ethnic minorities were repressed. Mussolini aimed to restore Italy's status as a major power in Europe, and invaded Ethiopia in 1935. ## Spain In Spain, a fascist dictatorship also emerged. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) occurred due to increasing social unrest including strikes and protests, caused by a power struggle when a leftist government was elected that was opposed by conservatives. General Franco, with support from various fascist states (mainly Germany), fought against the leftist government. Franco eventually became Spain's fascist dictator. His rule lasted until 1975. **Images:** The provided images show photos of Benito Mussolini and Francisco Franco. The images depict historical figures associated with fascism, from different parts of Europe. Additional images show symbols of Italian fascism, which were often used to show or promote governmental ideals.