Fascism comes from the Italian word “fascio”, meaning a bundle , which in this case represents “bundles of people”. Its origins go back to Ancient Rome, when the “fasces” was a bundle of wood with an ax head, carried by leaders.
Fascism is a movement that promotes the idea of a “ forcibly monolithic” , regimented nation under the control of an autocratic ruler .
Key Features: A fascism is a political system based on a very powerful leader, state control of social and economic life. Fascism is generally defined as a political movement that embraces nationalism and the forceful suppression of any opposition.
Fascism means control, for which private property and business are allowed, but in coordination with the state. In fascism, its movement emphasized loyalty to the state and its leader.
Fascism and Totalitarianism Fascist ideology is totalitarianism, which means a political system that controls every aspect of life, so that there is no private sphere or independent organizations.
CHARACTERISTICS OF FASCISM Cultural censorship indoctrination secret police Social supported by middle class, industrialists, and military Economic economic functions controlled by the state Political Nationalist Racist (Nazism) One-party rule Supreme leader Basic Principles Authoritarianism State are more important than the individual Charismatic leader Action oriented Chief Examples Italy Germany Spain
COUNTRIES WHO HAVE FASCISM FORM OF GOVERNMENT
FASCISM IN ITALY
Benito Mussolini Fascism gains power in Italy because of disappointment over the Versailles Treaty, inflation and unemployment in Italy. He founded Fascist Party in 1919. Mussolini promises great changes and as he gain power, he became a dictator in October 1922. He is known as II Duce or “the leader”
Mussolini’s Rise to Power (II Duce’s Leadership) Abolished democracy and outlawed all parties but fascists Government forced radios and publications to broadcast fascist doctrines Strengthened Italy’s economy Became model of fascism
POSITIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF FASCISM
Unrivaled security. - Usually, this form of leadership would prioritize the rights and integrity of the state to the citizens. Additionally, building the military and strengthening it was the only way that fascists would stay in power for long.
2. Nationalism and Patriotism. - This mode of governance focused on building the nation. With the leaders highlight the necessity to support their vision and developing the nation’s economy, patriotism will come out naturally. For instance, the Italians were much prouder of their country during fascism. For this reason, it will be fair to assume that it is a result of fascism.
3. Improved welfare. - There is no denying that this system of governance tends to focus on the welfare of each individual. Typically, the government will invest lots of money on enhancing security. From getting new weapons to ensuring soldiers are adequately trained, you can barely overlook the impact it will have on the everyday life of citizens. Further, the government will spend a significant amount of money on cultural improvements. It will be fair to mention that these improvements will be a conduct to enhancing national pride too.
4. Unmatched social-economic equality. - Fascism ensures that there is hardly any social class in society. Its systems, allocate wealth that will often depend on how much people need. This way, attaining economic and social balance becomes an effortless achievement.
5. Potentially less crime. - Having enhanced internal peace and order is no secret. Thanks to enhanced information systems, theft, burglary, and other petty crime should be unheard of in these states. What is more, fascists could readily make strict rules against corruption and other crimes, deterring any potential mischief.
6. Straightforward decision-making processes. - There is no denying that this system hardly allows any instances of bureaucracy. That is because power is absolute, and it is central to one person. With this, the decisions will often be dependent on those at the apex of governance, mostly the ruler. Nothing could come in handier in avoiding delays than this. Besides, faster decision-making means that handling emergencies will be seamless.
NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF FASCISM
Limited freedom of speech and human rights. - One of the pillars of fascism is to kill the opposition. Whether you want to criticize or rebuke the government, you will barely have the avenue. Any dissenting voice will often result in imprisonment or even death.
2. Enhances political and power abuse. - Undoubtedly, power rests on one individual whenever you are talking about fascism. From controlling the economic space to ensuring that the social lives of each citizen changes, these aspects could take a toll on an individual. Regardless of their initial objectives or intentions, it will be hard not to go astray. Remember that with time, these individuals will feel not only superior but also entitled.
3. Negative impact on the economy. - Most fascists will often have the entire economy at their disposal. If they are inexperienced in running it, this could end up being detrimental. While at it, they could come up with policies and instruments that end up suppressing investment. This way, it becomes relatively hard for the country’s economy to grow in the long run.
4. Poor governing ethics. - There is no denying that the control of such governments is often by impulse. You will also witness that they depend on the goodwill of the authoritarian in place, which could end up detrimental.
5. Disregard for international law. - Fascists usually hardly pay attention to what the other countries around them want or say. Thanks to their disregard for international law, their authority is absolute. This way, they will not want to be in global communities or even lead the country in such realms.
Impacts of Fascism
For others, fascism appeared to bring stability , well-being and national honour for which authoritarianism government was a price worth paying For large numbers of Italians, an oppressive fascist regime brought economic hardship and a loss of basic human rights.
Sustainability
One significant fascist economic belief was that prosperity would naturally follow once the nation has achieved a cultural and spiritual re-awakening. Different members of a fascist party would often make completely opposite statements about the economic policies they supported. Once in power, fascists usually adopted whatever economic program they believed to be most suitable for their political goals. Long-lasting fascist regimes made drastic changes to their economic policy from time to time.
Implications of Fascism
Fascist legislation mirrored ideological values which the regime claimed to represent, and among these values were the hierarchy of gender and the supremacy of the male . The military virtues of the ‘new fascist man’ left little room for women; the role of the women was defined in terms of family and motherhood, and was never intended to be anything other than subordinate. As a consequence, women faced adverse treatment in almost all spheres – political, economic, and social.
Fascism is an authoritarian Nationalist political ideology that promotes nation above the individual, and that stands for a centralized autocratic government controlled by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regulation, and powerful suppression of opposition.