Introduction

What Is Fascism?

In political discussions today, the word “fascism” is thrown around constantly. From social media arguments to news headlines, you hear terms like “neo-fascism,” “authoritarianism,” and comparisons to the 1930s. But what is fascism exactly?

Despite its frequent use, the true meaning of fascism is often misunderstood. It is not just a synonym for “bully” or “strict government.” It is a specific political ideology with a distinct history and set of characteristics.

This guide breaks down what fascism is in simple terms, its history starting with Benito Mussolini, and how it differs from other systems like communism and socialism.

The Simple Definition: What Does Fascism Mean?

At its core, fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ultranationalist political ideology.

If you are looking for a simple definition of fascism, think of it as a government system where:

• The Nation comes first: The state is more important than the individual.
• One Leader rules: A dictator has absolute power (authoritarianism).
• Dissent is crushed: Opposition parties, critical media, and protests are suppressed, often with violence.
• Strength is a virtue: Militarism and aggressive foreign policy are central goals.

The word itself comes from the Italian word fascio, meaning a “bundle of sticks.” The symbolism is clear: one stick is easily broken, but a bundle is unbreakable. In fascism, individual weakness is replaced by collective strength under a single leader.

Key Characteristics of Fascism

To understand what the ideology of fascism is, political scientists look for a specific “checklist” of traits. It is not just one thing; it is a combination of these factors:

1. Extreme Nationalism: A belief that your nation is superior to all others, often coupled with racism or xenophobia.
2. Cult of Personality: A charismatic dictator (like Mussolini or Hitler) who is seen as the only one capable of saving the country.
3. Militarism: Uniforms, parades, and the glorification of war are constant.
4. Suppression of Opposition: “Anti-fascism” is not allowed. Political rivals are jailed or killed.
5. Control of Mass Media: The government controls what the public hears and sees to maintain support.
6. Obsession with National Decline: Fascist leaders often claim the country is “under attack” or “weak” and promise a return to a “golden age.”

The Big Confusion: Fascism vs. Communism vs. Socialism

One of the most common questions is: what is the difference between fascism and communism?

While both can be totalitarian (where the government controls everything), their goals and beliefs are opposite.

Fascism vs. Communism

• Fascism (Far-Right): Believes in strict social hierarchies. It protects private property and corporations if they serve the state’s national interests. It focuses on national struggle (us vs. them).
• Communism (Far-Left): Theoretically aims to eliminate social hierarchies and private property. It focuses on class struggle (workers vs. owners) and aims for a global worker’s revolution, rather than national glory.

Fascism vs. Socialism

Socialism is a broad economic system where the community (or state) owns the means of production.

• Fascists famously hated socialists. In fact, fighting socialism was a major part of what Mussolini’s fascism was about. Fascists believe socialism divides the nation by focusing on class warfare, whereas they want the whole nation united (forcibly) behind the state.

A Brief History: From Mussolini to WWII

To understand what is fascism in history, we must look at Italy and Germany in the early 20th century.

• The Origins (Italy): The definition of fascism was first written by Benito Mussolini in Italy in 1919. Italy was in chaos after WWI. Mussolini promised order. He used his paramilitary groups (the Blackshirts) to attack socialists and seize power, becoming Il Duce (The Leader).
• The Radicalization (Germany): Adolf Hitler admired Mussolini. He adapted fascism into Nazism (National Socialism), adding a horrific layer of biological racism and antisemitism. This is what is fascism in WW2—the driving force behind the Axis powers.

Fascism Today: Modern Significance

You might see searches for “what is neo-fascism” or “fascism today.”

After World War II, “classic” fascism largely disappeared because it was militarily defeated. However, Neo-fascism refers to modern movements that share elements of the original ideology, such as:

• Extreme hatred of immigrants (xenophobia).
• Ultra-nationalism.
• Desire for an authoritarian strongman leader.

While few modern politicians call themselves “fascists,” the term is often used as a warning when political leaders begin attacking the press, undermining democratic elections, or scapegoating minorities to gain power.

Summary

• What is it? A far-right, authoritarian system prioritizing the nation over the individual.
• Who started it? Benito Mussolini in Italy (followed by Hitler in Germany).
• How is it different from Communism? Fascism is nationalistic and preserves class hierarchy; Communism is internationalist and seeks to end class hierarchy.