Authors: Kuper & Kuper
Summary: In approximately 1200 words, this entry discusses fascism's definitional history, describes the concept's unique characteristics, offers a few theories explaining the rise of fascist systems, and compares Italian and German fascist experiences.
The entry begins by noting some of the loose and inaccurate uses of the term in twentieth-century political discourse. Properly understood, fascism refers to a set of reactionary political movements that emerged in Europe between the two world wars. Fascism was unique because it opposed all existing political sectors. It was also the most intense and radical kind of nationalism that had ever existed in modern Europe. European fascist movements, despite their differences, all aimed at a new, modern, highly regulated and secular national economic structure and culture. They also sought mass mobilization and politicization. Violence and male dominance were commonly used to achieve these goals. Significant political movements sharing all these characteristics existed in Europe only during the years 1919-45.
During the early fascist period, these movements were supported mainly by former military personnel, the radical intelligentsia (including university students), and the lower middle class. In the later part of the period, fascist movements were also supported by urban workers, peasants, and agrarian workers.
Next, the entry mentions five categories of theories or explanations of fascism: socioeconomic theories, psychocultural theories, modernization theories, theories of totalitarianism, and historical interpretations.
The entry concludes by comparing the Italian and German fascist movements.