Fascism

The term “fascism” has become shorthand for authoritarian, undemocratic government. But it is a distinct philosophy with specific historical roots, and understanding its nature is key to combatting it. Use these examples to help students identify signs of fascism and learn the importance of resisting its central ideas.
Fascism

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Featured Materials

Fascism in Germany
Photo of high-ranking members of the German military standing next to Adolf Hitler.
OER Project
Article

Fascism in Germany External link

The Nazis were not the only fascists in Europe. But Nazism’s racist ideology and persecution of Jews distinguished it from other varieties of fascism.
What Is Fascism?
Fascism banner featuring a figure on a throne and the root word of fascism: fascio
World History 1750
Video

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.
Fascism in Italy
Photo of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini walking besides decorated members of the Italian military.
OER Project
Article

Fascism in Italy External link

Fascist Italy was Europe’s first authoritarian state of its kind. This article traces how Mussolini built power, where his regime succeeded and failed, and how Fascism in Italy compared to other movements during the interwar period.

Lessons

Lesson 7.3
World History 1750
Interwar and World War II
1914 CE – present
Fascism and Internationalism
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.
View Lesson
Lesson 7.4
World History 1750
Interwar and World War II
1914 CE – present
Comparing Authoritarianism
Not all authoritarian governments looked alike, but they had a lot in common. It’s important to spot the patterns—but also challenge the idea that there’s just one version of dictatorship.
View Lesson

Materials

Fascist Histories, Part II: Exercising Authoritarianism
A photograph of a large, organized parade in the center of a town. Several men in uniforms and helmets stand watching the parade.
OER Project
Article

Fascist Histories, Part II: Exercising Authoritarianism External link

As authoritarian leaders came to power in many countries, some people might have realized the horrors to come, but most barely recognized the danger.
Authoritarianism in Japan
Photo of a small group of Japanese and German soldiers talking amongst each other outside of an airfield in Berlin.
OER Project
Article

Authoritarianism in Japan External link

In interwar Japan, militarism fueled the rise of authoritarianism. Learn how leaders used their power to build a wartime empire.
Plaek Phibunsongkhram
Plaek Phibunsongkhram
World History 1750
Closer

Plaek Phibunsongkhram External link

As the leader of Thailand, Plaek Phibunsongkhram shaped his own version of fascism and aligned the country with Japan during the Second World War.

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