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“Mussolini’s control of Italy in the period 1925-1929 owed more to propaganda than to the use of terror” How far would you agree with this judgement?
Introduction
Outline that terror was used initially to ensure his hold on power, however once in power, the focus turned to propaganda to portray Mussolini’s ‘successes’. Although fascist repression cannot be ignored, it played a far more minor role than previously in the regime.
Main Body
- Early Repression: Fascist violence was more prominent in the period 1920-1925 and although less obvious after that period, repression was still apparent. There was comparatively less repression in Italy than in German or Russia, however, Morgan argued that “Repressiveness was not the most distinctive feature of the Fascist Totalitarian system, but was an essential and inescapable component of it”. It could be argued that popular policies and successful propaganda were more important in sustaining the regime than terror. Matteoti (1924), Rosselli Brothers (1937), OVRA- 20,000 actions weekly, 50,000 armed militia intimidated opponents, 400 people killed by state for political reasons.
- Propaganda: Used effectively, many different varieties of propaganda used. Used to affect peoples attitudes.
- Cult of Romanita: Ancient Rome was used as an example to show how great an Italian empire could be and to give Italians pride in their past, belief in their future and prepare them for the expansion of fascism. It was filtered into many policies such as education, archaeology, and even the fascist salute, marching style and symbol. Duce- Dux compared to leaders such as Augustus
- Press, media, film and radio: The press and media conformed to the fascist state and were therefore largely independent. Film and radio were used as propaganda, mixture of foreign and Italian films were shown. Foreign radio stations were also uncensored. Press was informed to keep Mussolini favourable- Cult of the Duce- called back to balcony ten times, not tired after 4 hours on a threshing machine.
- Arts and Culture: The regime tried to influence the people through arts and culture, alongside fascist productions and commissions, as a result the artisans were allowed virtually unrestricted freedoms. Despite Mussolini’s wishes, there was never a fascist style of art. Most popular styles neoclassical and modernist- contrasting styles.
- Dopolovaro: the fascist leisure organisation was set up in 1925. It improved health and created support for the regime. Mass activities and sport were also important. The world cup wins for Italy in 1934 and 1938 were seen as a coup.
- Minculpop: Established in 1937, amateurish in comparison to Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. Symbolised an increase in the propaganda campaign.
- Battle For Births (1927): launched with a massive propaganda campaign- films, public events and poster campaigns tried to encourage a baby boom in Italy. Celebrated successes, in 1933 Mussolini met 93 mothers who had produced over 1300 children. Not all women so readily seduced by the policy. As a result BfB failed.
- Battle for Lira: aimed to fix Lira at 90 to £, reduce inflation, and show Italians and the world that Lira and Italy was a mighty power. Boosted Italy’s prestige, harmed economy by hitting exports as well as Italian goods. Caused deflation 1936- government had to devalue Lira. Despite propaganda successes.
- Battle For Grain: aimed to boost cereal production to make Italy self sufficient, less dependent on imports when war came. Cereal production doubled at expense of other forms of agriculture. Decline in quality of Italian diet, “success in this battle was…another illusory propaganda victory won at the expense of the Italian economy in general and the consumers in particular.
- Battle of the Marshes: To provide more jobs, to increase land for cereal production, to show dynamic government in action, to impress foreigners. Latina and Sabaudia built as showpieces, 1928-1938 only 80,000 hectares of Land reclaimed one twentieth of the propaganda claim of one sixth of Italy. Bigger impact in providing jobs and improving public health than successes with farming. Pontine Marshes were propaganda victory to show how Mussolini was transforming the country.
Conclusion
Propaganda helped to strengthen the regime, reinforcing support for Mussolini, particularly as there was a type of propaganda which could appeal to everyone, across the whole of society. It appears that propaganda was more influential than terror, which was not widely employed to sustain power in Italy.
Comments
These notes are aimed at Edexcel A Level history students for Unit 4 on Mussolini.
Originally written by *~vicky~* on TSR Forums.
