SSB Lecturette Notes: Fascism: Origins, Features, and Modern Relevance

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🗣️ “Fascism is capitalism plus murder.” – Upton Sinclair

Introduction 

👉 Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ideology that emphasizes nationalism, dictatorial power, and suppression of opposition. 

👉 It emerged in early 20th century Europe, especially after World War I, and is closely associated with leaders like Benito Mussolini (Italy) and Adolf Hitler (Germany). 

👉 Fascism rejects democracy, liberalism, communism, and promotes the idea of one-party rule, militarism, and often racial or ethnic supremacy.

Key Features of Fascism 

🔹 Authoritarianism – Centralized power in the hands of a single leader or ruling party
🔹 Extreme Nationalism – Glorification of the nation above all, often leading to xenophobia

🔹 Militarism – A focus on military strength and expansionism

🔹 Suppression of Dissent – Censorship, propaganda, and elimination of political opposition

🔹 State Control Over Society – Regulation of culture, education, media, and economy to serve state interests

🔹 Cult of Personality – Leaders are portrayed as infallible and heroic figures

Historical Background 

👉 Italy under Mussolini (1922–1943) – Birthplace of fascism, marked by aggressive nationalism, blackshirt militias, and imperial ambition 

👉 Germany under Hitler (1933–1945) – Nazi fascism based on racial purity, anti-Semitism, and totalitarianism led to World War II and the Holocaust 

👉 Spain under Franco, and similar movements in other parts of Europe during the interwar years reflected the spread of fascist ideology

Consequences of Fascism 

❌ World War II – Fascist aggression by Axis powers caused a global conflict with over 70 million deaths

❌ Genocides – Mass extermination of Jews, minorities, and political opponents under Nazi Germany

❌ Suppression of Rights – Elimination of civil liberties, freedom of expression, and democratic institutions

❌ Economic Collapse – Over-centralization and militarism led to long-term damage to national economies

Fascism in the Modern Context 

👉 Fascism as a formal system declined after World War II, but neo-fascist ideologies and right-wing extremism continue to rise in various parts of the world today 

👉 Warning signs include populist leaders, intolerance toward minorities, disinformation, and erosion of democratic norms

India and Fascism 

👉 India, being a democratic and pluralistic society, rejects fascism in principle and practice 

👉 However, vigilance is necessary to protect democratic values, tolerance, and constitutional freedoms in the face of rising political polarization and majoritarianism

Conclusion 

Fascism is a dangerous ideology that thrives on fear, hatred, and blind loyalty to authoritarian power. The lessons of history urge us to defend democracy, uphold human rights, and promote inclusiveness. A well-informed, responsible citizenry is the best defense against the return of fascist tendencies.