Understanding Fascism in Modern Italy: A Historian's Perspective
Fascism, often studied in schools with a definitive negative connotation, remains largely ignored by the general population in contemporary Italy. This societal perception is shaped by complex historical and political factors. In this article, we delve deeper into the reasons behind this lack of discourse, examine the historical context, and provide an analysis to foster a more comprehensive understanding.
Why Fascism is Not a Priority in Modern Italy
The hostility towards fascism in Italy is not as rampant as in countries like Germany. In Germany, Nazism was deeply ingrained in the social fabric and supported by a sizeable portion of the population, contributing to a significant cultural impact. Conversely, while fascism in Italy held power, its roots were more intertwined with the ambitions of the elite and their quest for control.
The Historical and Political Context
Historical Roots: The ideology of fascism in Italy was developed later, influenced by scholars such as Giovanni Gentile. This delayed development contributed to the lack of a strong cultural legacy in the Italian context compared to Germany.
Partisan Views: Leftist historians often view pre-republican Italian politics as an elite affair, which meant a significant segment of the populace was left out of the narrative. Additionally, the complex political landscape post-fascism in Italy presented a dual challenge. A democratic Christian Democratic party in concert with a communist party more interested in mutual antagonism than addressing past grievances thwarted a thorough investigation of the past.
Individuals and Fascist Support
Academic Support: During the fascist regime, out of more than a thousand university professors, only three did not swear allegiance to the regime, reflecting the depth of support within academia.
Bureaucratic Compliance: Despite the minimal participation of the general population in the Jewish extermination process, the bureaucracy fully adhered to racial policies, leading to state discrimination against Jews. Notably, Italy once boasted a Jewish Prime Minister, Alessandro Fortis, showcasing the political landscape's complexity during fascism.
Comparative Analysis: Fascism vs. Democracy in the Early 20th Century
Pragmatic Equivalence: A complete historical analysis reveals that fascism was not inherently worse than the democracies of that era. For instance, the United States had an official discriminatory policy, while colonial nations, including Italy, perpetrated mass killings under nominally democratic regimes.
Post-War Reevaluation: While modern democracies are undoubtedly superior to fascistic regimes, they have evolved from the lessons learned during World War II and the subsequent Cold War. At the time, the alternatives seemed equally bleak, and the horrors of fascism forced everyone to reassess and improve.
Conclusion
Understanding fascism in modern Italy requires a nuanced approach. While it is acknowledged that selected groups supported the fascist regime, the minimalist viewpoint neglects broader contributions and continuities. As historians continue to uncover the true nature of fascism, the broader public can engage in informed discussions, fostering a more equitable and enlightened society.