Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ultra-nationalist political ideology and movement characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society and the economy. It emerged in early 20th-century Europe, with Italy under Benito Mussolini being its first major example.
Key features of fascism include:
- Authoritarianism: Fascist regimes are led by strong leaders with near-absolute power. Democratic processes are typically dismantled or heavily controlled.
- Ultra-nationalism: Fascism promotes intense nationalism, often combined with a belief in the superiority of one’s own nation or race.
- Militarism: Fascist states often glorify military strength and use violence or the threat of violence to achieve political ends.
- Suppression of Opposition: Political dissent is not tolerated. Fascist governments often use secret police, censorship, and propaganda to eliminate opposition.
- Controlled Economy: While fascist economies are not necessarily fully state-controlled, the government exerts significant control over economic activities, often through corporatism, where the state mediates between capital and labor within a single-party state structure.
- Anti-Communism: Fascism strongly opposes communism and socialism, viewing these ideologies as threats to the nation and its values.
- Cultural and Social Control: Fascist regimes seek to mold society through strict control of education, media, and culture, promoting a homogeneous national identity.
Fascism has been most notably associated with Mussolini’s Italy and Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany, but it has influenced various movements and regimes around the world. Despite its historical roots, the term “fascism” is sometimes used more broadly to describe various authoritarian and nationalist movements.