Question

Due to Fascism, Italy made progress in different spheres of life and became a powerful nation. With reference to the results of Fascism in Italy, explain the following:

1. Reforms introduced in Italy to improve the economic condition of the people.
2. Aggressive foreign policy under Mussolini.
3. Negative impact of Fascism in Italy.

Answer 1

1. Mussolini introduced various reforms to improve the economic condition of the people in Italy.
   1. Mussolini took steps to prevent the further decline in the value of the Italian currency.
   2. Several efforts were made to reduce unemployment.
   3. Factories and mills were nationalised to improve the conditions of workers.
   4. Syndicates were set up to foster better relations between capitalists and workers.
   5. Mussolini initiated large public works projects, including the construction of roads, bridges, canals, railways, schools, and hospitals.
2. Mussolini used to say, "Italy must expand or perish."
   1. Mussolini reclaimed the Islands of Rhodes, Dodecanese, and the city of Fiume.
   2. Albania was turned into a protectorate under Italy’s control.
   3. He entered into commercial and diplomatic treaties with France and Russia.
   4. In 1936, Italy captured Abyssinia, and when the League of Nations objected, Italy withdrew from the League
   5. Following this, relations between Italy and England, as well as France, worsened, pushing Italy closer to Germany.
3. Besides the positive impacts, there were many negative effects of Fascism in Italy.
   1. Mussolini restricted political freedom.
   2. After coming to power, he became a dictator, taking control of both military and civil powers.
   3. All political parties except the Fascist Party were banned.
   4. He abolished the jury system and set up special courts where Fascist officers handled political cases.
   5. The press was censored, and freedom of speech and meetings was prohibited.
   6. Mussolini dealt harshly with his opponents, suppressing any resistance.