Benito Mussolini

1883- 1945

Italian Politician

 

 

Italian dictator Benito Mussolini started his career as a left-wing journalist. He spent a number of years in exile in Switzerland. During World War I, he urged Italian entry into the war on the side of the Allies. As a result, he was expelled from the Socialist Party.

After the war, he was a strong advocate of Italian nationalism, and soon drew a wide following. He led his "Black Shirts" on Rome during a period of civil unrest and demanded that the King of Italy appoint him Prime Minister. Much to his surprise, the King agreed and before long, Mussolini had established a dictatorship.

Mussolini led Italy in the attack on Ethiopia in 1935, and entered into an alliance with Hitler. Consequently, Italy entered World War II on Germany's side. Italian forces were unprepared.

After the Allies invaded Italy, Mussolini was captured and hung.