Fascist Voices: An Intimate History of Mussolini's Italy
In Germany, the ideology of National Socialism has been relegated to the fringes of the political and cultural landscape. In Italy, however, so-called new Fascism retains some mainstream appeal, and there has been a concerted effort to reexamine and even resurrect the reputation and legacy of Mussolini. To explore this issue, Duggan has presented numerous letters written to Mussolini by a variety of Italian citizens. The letters are arranged chronologically, which allows the reader to gauge the evolving sentiments toward Mussolini and the Fascist government. The letters from the 1920s and 1930s are generally laudatory and sometimes worshipful. Mussolini is praised by some as a savior and by others as a wise politician. As the fortunes of war turn sour in the 1940s, letters attack the government but, surprisingly, many continue to praise Mussolini, as if he stands apart from the government he dominates. This is an interesting and revealing glimpse into the workings and appeal of a Fascist government. --Jay Freeman