| Chapter 1: | Italy from the American Immigration Quota Act of 1921 to Mussolini’s Policy of Grossraum, 1921–1924 |
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He was simply the leader of the 35 Fascist deputies elected in 1921 and of the newly formed National Fascist Party. Nationwide, Mussolini was known more for his promise of national regeneration and restoration of law and order in Italy than for his political achievements. The same day Mussolini appointed all other ministers but reserved for himself the ministry for foreign affairs. Fascism held power, with thanks to the nation’s economic situation for its final rise. Mussolini had the support of the agrarian middle class and the industrialists. He also organized young men between the ages of 17 and 25 into paramilitary Black Shirt units. United they formed a disciplined and enthusiastic force opposing the traditional politics of Liberalism, Socialism, and Popularism. Mussolini’s success depended on his promises of social order, economic improvement, and, above all, solving the problem of unemployment.21
The Downfall of Liberalism and the Fascist Strategy
Restrictive immigration measures approved by the American Congress intensified Italy’s socioeconomic crisis and led to the downfall of Liberalism. The whole Italian political system—based upon uncertain postulates—collapsed. The Liberal program of slow reforms proved inadequate to cope with the postwar economy. Previously, the Liberal government had pleaded for and solicited emigration quotas to meet the consequences of Italy’s fast-growing population, especially in the southern regions. Sound reforms had not been attempted to solve structural imbalance and eliminate the permanent disequilibrium between upper and lower classes. Not even when the restrictive American immigration policy became effective did the Italian government introduce effective measures to minimize the consequences of its severe blow. Liberal leaders continued to think of themselves as the champions of democracy in Italy. Taking advantage of dissension and division plaguing other Italian political parties, Liberals adopted a pretence of stability, invulnerability, and capacity to effect law and order. But beginning in 1921, the governments, controlled by a Liberal majority and seriously challenged by economic and social unrest, collapsed one after another. On the other hand, Mussolini started deeply penetrating middle and lower classes.