Fascism

From RationalWiki

Fascism was a term coined by Benito Mussolini for his nationalistic and totalitarian political movement, which came to power in Italy between the 1920s and 1940s. The term has been widely used to refer to other right wing nationalist governments, such as Francisco Franco's rule in Spain, and, prior to World War II there were unsucessful fascist movements in other European countries, including Britain.

Fascist ideology centres on national unity behind a single revered dictator. It is largely remembered for its oppressive treatment of citizens, infringements on personal freedomns and ruthless crushing of opposition. It usually requires a cult of personality around a single central figure and a strong emphasis on a particularly militaristic view of national security.

Fascism is often associated with the Naziism of Adolf Hitler's regime in Germany, another oppressive nationalist ideology. However, while there were many similarities, and a very strong alliance between Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, there were subtle differences. For example, while Hitler was obsessed with racial purity and racial hierarchies, Mussolini (initially at least) did not support racialism and antisemitism, seeing the nation rather than race as the rallying point for Fascist unity.

Since the war, the word "fascist" has become a general insult or accusation hurled around loosely, usually inappropriately and often childishly, to criticise anyone or anything we find even slightly overbearing or restrictive.