Notes for World History
NAZISM AND FASCISM
There is sometimes confusion about the meaning of the terms Nazism and Fascism.
Similarities between Nazism and Fascism
Both were intensely anti-communist and, because of this, drew a solid basis of support from all classes.
They were anti-democratic and attempted to organize a totalitarian state, controlling industry, agriculture and the way of life of the people.
They attempted to make the country self-sufficient.
They emphasized the close unity of all classes working together to achieve these ends.
Both emphasized the supremacy of the state, were intensely nationalistic, glorifying war, and the cult of hero/leader.
Differences between Nazism and Fascism
Fascism never seemed to take root in Italy as deeply as the Nazi system did in Germany.
The Italian system was not as efficient as that in Germany. The Italians never came anywhere near achieving self-sufficiency and never eliminated unemployment.
The Italian system was not as ruthless or as brutal as that in Germany and there were no mass atrocities.
Italian fascism was not particularly racist until 1938.
Mussolini was more successful than Hitler with his religious policy.
The monarchy still remained in Italy, and the king played a vital role in 1943 when he dismissed Mussolini.
