The Rise of Fascism in Post-WWI Europe

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This video provides a comprehensive historical overview of the rise of fascism in Europe during the interwar period, with a primary focus on Benito Mussolini's Italy. It begins by establishing the context of the 1920s—a time marked by economic despair, national disappointment over the Treaty of Versailles, and political instability—which created a fertile environment for extremist ideologies. The content clearly defines fascism, breaking it down into seven key characteristics, including militarism, extreme nationalism, and totalitarian control, while also offering a critical comparison between Fascism and Communism. The narrative details how Mussolini consolidated power by dismantling democratic institutions, rigging elections, and utilizing methods like secret police surveillance and youth indoctrination (the Balilla). It further explores the spread of fascist regimes across Eastern Europe, attributing this trend to the trauma of World War I, the Great Depression, and the weakness of young democracies. Historical examples, including Hungary and Poland, are used to illustrate the domino effect of authoritarianism in the region. For educators, this resource serves as an excellent core text for units on the Interwar Period, the Rise of Totalitarianism, or World War II causes. It simplifies complex political theories into digestible concepts and uses clear historical evidence to explain how dictators gain and maintain power. The video includes built-in guiding questions and pause points, making it a ready-made tool for fostering classroom discussions about the fragility of democracy and the appeal of authoritarianism in times of crisis.