Benito Mussolini The Leader of a Facist Italy

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Benito Mussolini (“II Duce”) was the leader of a fascist Italy, coming into power during 1923 and up till his defeat in the Italian parliament during 1943. In May of 1940, Italy sided with Germany, as Mussolini’s interest were similar to those Hitler had. Later, he was deposed after losing the vote from the Grand Council of Fascism and was to be arrested by the king and partisans in July of 1943 and imprisoned. Soon after he was rescued by an SS raid (“Gran Sasso Raid”) and restored by Hitler. However, in 1945 he was again captured by partisans, when Mussolini realized that defeat was looming and was attempting to flee north. Captured again Mussolini was quickly executed near Lake Como by the Italian partisans. From 1940 to 1945 Mussolini’s actions both globally and locally, had significant and damaging impact on the war efforts of both Nazi Germany and Italy, contributing to the Allied victory in May 1945. [2] [3]
North African Campaign (Italy’s invasion)
Mussolini’s North African campaign was first of his two major military failures. In June 1940, Mussolini began the invasion of North Africa, brought on by his desire to bring back the Roman Empire. However, Mussolini went into this invasion unannounced to his ally Hitler, who at first had little interest in the goings on in North Africa. But due to Italy’s troops having a lack of training and limited supplies the campaign had many of the Italians surrendering and captured. This would have the Germans coming into the campaign in an effort to help the Italians. Only now did Hitler begin to realize the importance of capturing North Africa. However Germany’s involvement in the campaign made no difference, as the Allies managed to drive out all of the Axis forces and successfully de...

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