The collapse of Liberal Italy and Mussolini’s Rise to Power, 1915–1922 Key Terms

Caporetto

A significant battle in 1917 during World War I where Italian forces suffered a major defeat against Austro-German troops.

Mutilated Victory

A term used to describe the perceived incomplete victory of Italy after World War I, where many felt that the country did not gain all the territories it was promised.

Treaty of Saint-Germain

The 1919 treaty that officially ended World War I between the Allies and Austria, impacting Italy's territorial claims.

Fascism

A political ideology that emerged in Italy under Mussolini, characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, and the suppression of opposition.

PSI

Italian Socialist Party, a major political force advocating for workers' rights and social reforms.

Blackshirts

Fascist paramilitary groups that used violence to intimidate political opponents and enforce Mussolini's rule.

Blackshirts

Paramilitary groups associated with the Fascist Party, known for their violent tactics against political opponents.

Biennio Rosso

The 'Two Red Years' (1919-1920) marked by widespread strikes and social unrest in Italy, contributing to the political instability of the time.