Mussolini and Milan in the time of fascism.
“Diplomacy is a hidden activity. The realities of international politics are best kept away from non-professionals” – B. Mussolnin
Benito Mussolini was born on 29 July 1883 in the small Italian village of Varano, near Predappio (where his house-museum is now located, 70 km from San Marino).
His parents were Alessandro, a blacksmith and carpenter, and Rosa Maltoni, a schoolteacher. They lived in 3 small rooms on the 2nd floor of a 3-storey building. His mother was a devout Catholic and because of his parents’ disagreements on religious grounds, Benito was baptised at a later age rather than as an infant. His father was not educated but was always interested in politics and did not recognise theology. He often led rallies, then went to prison, and worshipped the revolutionary Bakunin.
The father gave his son his first name in honour of Benito Juárez, the president of Mexico, and his second and third names, Andrea and Amilcaré, after the socialist party leaders Costa and Cipriani.
The father’s political views influenced his son’s outlook so strongly that at the age of 17 he became a member of the Socialist party.
The couple never imagined that their first-born son would become the leader of Italy’s fascist party. In Italy, Mussolini is treated differently, his personality too complex to assess his actions and rule.
“Mussolini is an enigma to me. I am attracted to many of his reforms and these reforms should be studied impartially. In his speeches there is sincerity and boundless love for his people” – Mahatma Gandhi.
Till today Italian tour guides prefer not to give a tour about Mussolini, he is still at the centre of discussions and disputes.
Who is he – Benitto Mussolini? How was life under fascism? The dictator’s personal life and the mystery of his death.
The architecture and art of the Mussolini era.
You can also indicate the sights you would like to visit.
