Mussolini
BENITO, leader of the Italian Fascisti and Premier of Italy, was born at Predappio in the province of Forli, 1884. He received a normal school training and afterwards studied at the University of Bologna. For a short time he was a teacher of French, but meanwhile he became deeply interested in socialism and the study of the social sciences. He traveled in Germany, France, and Switz- NEAR EASTERN QUESTION erland, visiting Italian colonies in these countries and becoming recognized as a militant socialist. He entered the field of journalism and became the editor of "Avanti," official organ of the Socialist party. On the outbreak of the European war, however, he denounced the pacifist attitude of the Socialists and was expelled from the organization, founding the "Popolo d'Italia" at Milan and advocating Italian participation in the war. On the declaration of war by Italy, he endeavored to enlist, but his former socialist activities were suspected and he was obliged to await the summoning of his class to the colors. He then served in the ranks, was wounded and decorated for bravery, and, being disabled, returned to his journal, which he changed from a mildly socialistic daily to one devoted to the purposes of nationalism. He supported d'Annunzio's post-war activities and in March, 1919, organized the first local Fascio in Milan to combat the spread of communism in Italy. His life was endangered on many occasions by his bitter fight against the radicals, but gradually the Fascista movement gained ground and became predominant all over Italy. Mussolini was recognized as its spokesman and leader, and early in 1922 he was offered a post in the Italian cabinet. He rejected the offer for himself and his party, demanding full control and ultimately threatening to seize the government by force if necessary. The government was powerless (See ITALY:
THE FASCISTI); the Fascista legions all over Italy were mobilized and ordered to march on Rome. Resistance was useless, the Italian cabinet resigned, and Mussolini was summoned by the King and invited to form a new government.
He became Premier of Italy October 30, 1922, assuming the portfolios both of foreign affairs and of the interior. In his first speech before the Chamber of Deputies he avowed the revolutionary nature of of his government, demanded and obtained dictatorial powers, and prescribed a rigid program of economy, work, and discipline for the Italian nation.
N