Fascism

Fascists prioritized the state over the individual, believing that the strength and unity of the nation were paramount. They emphasized collective identity, often based on nationalism, and sought to suppress individual rights and freedoms in favor of state control and authority. The individual's role was seen as subordinate to the needs and goals of the state, which was often portrayed as a living entity that required loyalty and sacrifice from its citizens.

A political regime, usually totalitarian, ideologically based on centralized government, government control of business, repression of criticism or opposition, a leader cult and exalting the state and/or religion above individual rights. Originally only applied (usually capitalized) to Benito Mussolini's Italy.

Millions turned to fascism in the early 20th century due to a combination of economic turmoil, social unrest, and a desire for national unity and strength. The aftermath of World War I left many countries with deep economic crises, unemployment, and political instability, prompting people to seek radical solutions. Fascist leaders promised to restore national pride, order, and economic stability, often through authoritarian means, appealing to those disillusioned with traditional democratic processes. Additionally, the fear of communism and the desire for a strong, centralized government further fueled the rise of fascist ideologies.

Benito Mussolini was a key figure in the rise of fascism in Europe, being the founder of the Italian Fascist Party and the first to implement fascist policies in government. His regime, established in 1922, emphasized nationalism, authoritarianism, and militarism, serving as a model for other fascist movements across Europe, including Adolf Hitler's Nazi Germany. Mussolini's aggressive foreign policy and propaganda helped to popularize fascism, influencing political ideologies and movements in several countries during the interwar period. Ultimately, his actions contributed to the broader spread of fascist ideals in the 20th century.

The Nazi regime refers to the government led by Adolf Hitler and the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP) in Germany from 1933 to 1945. Characterized by totalitarianism, extreme nationalism, and militarism, it promoted ideologies of racial purity and anti-Semitism, leading to the systemic persecution and genocide of millions, particularly Jews, during the Holocaust. The regime also initiated World War II through aggressive expansionist policies. It ultimately collapsed in 1945, resulting in significant political and social upheaval in Germany and Europe.

Although it is debated that there are many contradicting forms of Fascism, the main originating Italian and Nazi ideology of Fascism consisted of these main points: * Extreme Nationalism * Anti-Communism * Militarism * Corporatism * The creating of a "unity" among a nation, both racially and socially. The Fascist notion of "unity" was the most prominent feature of Nazi and Italian Fascism before, and during World War II. The best example of racial unity within a Fascist regime is that of Hitler's Nazi regime, and his attempt to create racial unity by eliminating the Jewish race from the world.

Widespread poverty was a primary factor that helped fascist leaders gain power in Eastern Europe. Russia is an example of an Eastern European country.

When dominant political tribes organise themselves into political parties and platforms that seek to retain state power to the exclusion of 1) other stakeholders, and 2) international accountability by actively building a siege mentality in their followers and (most defining) demonising the "International Community" and its agents as the enemy - case in point Ivory Coast's Laurent Gbagbo,, Kenya's PNU

The slogan of fascist governments could be "Might makes right".

Streaks