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Competing Ideologies

Driving Question: Why did extremist ideologies like fascism emerge during the interwar period?

In the shadow of World War I, some nations pushed for peace and cooperation while others promised strength through control. Examine the forces that drove these decisions, and the consequences that followed.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Use evidence to understand how and why diplomacy failed to prevent a second world war.
  2. Use the historical thinking practices of comparison and causation to analyze the rise of authoritarian governments in various regions of the world.
  3. Use a graphic biography to support, extend, or challenge the overarching narratives of this period.
STEP 1

Opener: Competing Ideologies

Fascist and authoritarian ideologies transformed political life in the interwar period. This closer encourages you to reflect on how these ideas gained traction and why they appealed to people facing uncertainty and hardship.

STEP 2

A New Threat

Fascism emerged as a powerful force in the interwar period, but it wasn’t the only path forward. Compare how different ideologies, from authoritarianism to internationalism, competed to shape the future in a time of crisis.

Internationalism Between the Wars External link

After World War I, many people had dreams of peace and international cooperation. But these dreams were not realized as the world grew more isolationist and combative.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.

What Is Fascism? External link

What is fascism, really? This video breaks down the core ideas and strategies behind fascist movements, revealing how they rose to power and helped ignite World War II.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.
STEP 3

Closer: Competing Ideologies

Phibunsongkhram’s use of fascist ideas in Thailand was adapted to his local and regional goals. His story expands our understanding of global authoritarianism.

Extension Materials
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Use these case studies for added insight into how fascist, communist, and authoritarian governments gained ground in this era.
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Fascism, Communism, and Authoritarianism

Why did so many countries turn to extremist leaders in the interwar years? These articles add valuable global context by examining how fascism, communism, and authoritarianism took root in Italy, the Soviet Union, and Japan. These cases help you compare how different systems responded to crisis—and why so many people supported strong, often repressive, governments.