Real Dictators: Benito Mussolini Part 2 – The March on Rome

Episode Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host: Paul McGann
Production Team: Joel Duddell, Ed Baranski, Miriam Baines, Tom Pink, George Tapp, Dorry Macaulay, Cian Ryan-Morgan, Anisha Devadasan, Joseph McGann
Composers: Oliver Baines, Dorry Macaulay, Tom Pink

Introduction

In the second installment of the "Benito Mussolini" series, Real Dictators delves deep into the tumultuous events leading up to Mussolini's infamous March on Rome. Hosted by Paul McGann and enriched with insights from historians and eyewitnesses, this episode meticulously unpacks the socio-political climate of post-World War I Italy that paved the way for Mussolini's rise to power.

The Path to Power: Post-War Italy

The Aftermath of World War I ([00:32] - [05:25])

Italy's entry into World War I, championed by Mussolini's fervent advocacy, initially labeled him a traitor by the Socialist Party due to his nationalist rhetoric. Professor John Foote explains, "His act of political heresy has seen him kicked out of his beloved Socialist Party." Despite being a wartime volunteer, Mussolini's experiences on the brutal Western Front left him physically scarred and ideologically transformed.

War's Toll and Political Turmoil ([05:25] - [09:01])

As Italy grappled with devastating losses—nearly three-quarters of a million lives lost—the nation was mired in economic despair, political instability, and social unrest. David, a contributor, highlights the betrayal felt by many: "The big betrayal is 1915... They wanted the war, particularly the King and the industrialists."

Ideological Genesis and Early Fascism

Inspiration from Gabriele D'Annunzio ([15:00] - [18:31])

The episode introduces Gabriele D'Annunzio, an influential poet and nationalist, whose occupation of Fiume symbolized the "mutilated victory" felt by many Italians. David notes, "D'Annunzio gets this rag bag group of minisia and this pre ends the march on Rome," emphasizing his role in setting ideological precedents that Mussolini would later adopt.

Formation of the Fascist Party ([27:50] - [33:48])

Mussolini's attempt to enter mainstream politics with the Fasci Italiane di Combattimento in 1919 initially backfired, garnering only 4,000 votes. However, as Grace observes, "They run on that platform and are completely wiped out... but the movement is about to shoot off in a new paramilitary direction." The recruitment of military veterans like Emilio de Bono and Cesare Maria de Vecchi solidified the party's militant stance.

The March on Rome: Strategy and Execution

Building Momentum ([34:38] - [40:33])

By 1920, Mussolini had repositioned the Fascist Party, aligning with industrialists and landowners to suppress labor unrest. Eve underscores this shift: "They jettison the more radical elements... and reposition themselves as allies of industrialists and landowners." The establishment of the squadristi—paramilitary squads equipped to intimidate and eliminate socialist agitators—became a cornerstone of Fascist strategy.

Election and Increasing Influence ([40:33] - [43:55])

The 1921 elections saw the Fascists secure 35 seats in the Chamber of Deputies, propelling Mussolini into a national political arena. Bob reflects, "Mussolini can now count on businessmen... a huge residuum of unemployed soldiers who are very angry." This period marked the consolidation of Fascist influence, setting the stage for larger political maneuvers.

Prelude to the March ([43:55] - [50:29])

As Italy teetered on the brink of civil war, with rampant strikes and social unrest, Mussolini orchestrated the March on Rome—a calculated display of force aimed at compelling the government to cede power. David provides a contrasting perspective: "The March on Rome is a very serious political project. The Italian state had more or less collapsed by 1922."

The Climactic March and Seizure of Power

Executing the March ([52:42] - [60:54])

On October 28, 1922, Mussolini's Blackshirts amassed outside Rome, poised to storm the capital. Despite resistance fears, the King, Victor Emmanuel III, opted for a strategic concession rather than military confrontation. Grace comments, "The King... is the one who flinches in the end and leaves the coast clear for the Blackshirts to march into Rome."

King Victor Emmanuel III's Decision ([55:37] - [58:35])

Faced with the potential for extensive bloodshed, the King chose to appoint Mussolini as Prime Minister, effectively legitimizing his power. Bob narrates Mussolini's transformation: "Just 18 months earlier, he wasn't even an elected politician. And now he is the brand new leader of the nation."

Aftermath and Establishment of Dictatorship

Legitimizing Fascist Rule ([60:38] - [62:01])

With his appointment, Mussolini swiftly moved to dismantle democratic institutions and eliminate opposition. Isaac emphasizes the critical nature of this transition: "From this moment on, I think that the dictatorship starts because in a way, all the parameter of liberal democracy has already been defeated."

Conclusion and Transition to Dictatorship ([62:01] - [63:21])

The episode concludes with Mussolini solidifying his control, setting the foundation for a totalitarian regime. Bob reflects, "Mussolini reflects, perhaps he should have entered Rome on a white horse... and now he is the Duce of Italy."

Notable Quotes

• David ([05:25]): "So the big betrayal is 1915... They wanted the war, particularly the King and the industrialists."

• Grace ([33:20]): "They can pick out the bits that they liked. There's no dogma that you have to subscribe to."

• Isaac ([43:55]): "Many were starting to look at Italy as a country on the edge of a civil war."

• Hannah ([27:50]): "One of the things that's really striking about the creation of fascism is the fact that it feels like it happens in quite a haphazard way."

• Bob ([60:38]): "Il Duce is a big hit. But Mussolini will dismantle democracy and kill off the opposition."

Insights and Conclusions

Real Dictators effectively captures the intricate web of factors that enabled Mussolini's ascent to power. From economic devastation and social unrest to strategic alliances and ruthless political maneuvers, the episode underscores how a combination of charisma, militarism, and opportunism culminated in the establishment of one of history's most notorious dictatorships. The use of primary sources and expert commentary enriches the narrative, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the events that shaped modern Italy.

For those intrigued by the complexities of Mussolini's rise and the broader implications for authoritarian regimes, this episode serves as an essential exploration of power, propaganda, and political strategy.

To Listen Early:
Subscribers of Noiser+ can access new episodes a week early, enjoy ad-free listening, and exclusive content. Visit noiser.com/subscriptions for more information.