Historian A: Emilio Gentile – Political/Ideological Perspective

"Emilio Gentile argues that Mussolini’s rise was primarily driven by his skillful manipulation of political institutions and his ability to appeal to nationalist sentiments. Gentile emphasizes Mussolini’s strategic use of propaganda, his mastery of political tactics, and his exploitation of Italy’s post-war instability. He suggests that Mussolini’s authoritarian methods were a calculated response to the political chaos, allowing him to gain and maintain power through a combination of violence, propaganda, and political alliance-building. This perspective highlights the importance of political cunning and ideological appeal in Mussolini’s success."

Historian B: R.J.B. Bosworth – Social and Economic Perspective

"R.J.B. Bosworth contends that Mussolini’s rise was largely due to social and economic factors. He emphasizes Italy’s economic struggles, widespread social unrest, and the fear among Italians of communist revolution as key reasons for Mussolini’s appeal. Bosworth points out that Mussolini capitalized on public fears by promising stability, national pride, and economic revival. He argues that Mussolini’s support was rooted in the desire for order amid chaos, and that social discontent and economic hardship created fertile ground for his fascist movement to flourish."