(i) Mussolini used the term 'Fascism' for his movement. The fascists adopted as their symbol "the fasces' or a bundle of rods, which represented state power.

(ii) The main features of these movements were opposition to democracy and socialism, establishment of dictatorial rule, extreme nationalism and militarism.

(iii) Mussolini made eloquent speeches about the glory of ancient Roman Empire and urged people to restore Italy's honour.

(iv) Many ex-soldier's after listening to his speeches, joined his armed gangs, which was a private army called 'Blackshirts'.

(v) Mussolini used these gangs to break up strikes and to spread terror among the socialists and communists. The ruling classes of Italy did not curb their action because they also wanted to prevent socialist revolution.

(vi) In 1921, Mussolini set-up the National Fascist Party. In October next year, he sent 30,000 of his Blackshirts in a march on Rome. The government surrendered without a fight and the king asked Mussolini to form the new government.

(vii) By 1928, Mussolini had destroyed all parliamentary opposition and had begun to rule as a dictator. All non- fasicst parties were banned. He used imprisonment torture and organized killings to suppress the socialists and the communists.

(viii) He set-up the Fascist Grand Council and took the title of II Duce of the Leader. He tried to make Italy a great power by advocating a policy of war and expansion.