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Mussolini signed a pact with Hitler to be an ally. He did NOT think of it as he was following after Hitler. Both countries had a form of fascist government. For a long time, before the war and a year into the war, the two Dictators were equal in many ways in their actions and egotism. Mussolini came to power in 1922, many years before Hitler did in 1933. In June 1934, Hitler traveled to Italy to visit Mussolini. Hitler, dressed in civilian clothes, was dazzled by Mussolini who wore a splendid uniform and showed off his air and sea power. This inspired Hitler to begin wearing his uniform and visor cap. Even the Nazi stiff-arm salute was taken from Mussolini and his Blackshirts. Mussolini was fluent in German but it seems that every time they met, Hitler would take control of the conversation. So, in a sense, Mussolini did relent control to Hitler. By 1941, Italy had fought several years in North Africa and was tired of war. Their Army was worn out and needed new equipment. That made Mussolini "look up" to Hitler for aide. Link: http://www.custermen.com/ItalyWW2/History/Fascists.htm

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17y ago

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