Access to History: Italy: The Rise of Fascism 1915-1945: Third edition

Book excerpt: The new editions of Access to History combine all the strengths of this well-loved series with a new design and features that allow all students access to the content and study skills needed to achieve exam success. The third edition of Italy: Liberalism and Fascism 1870-1945 has been revised to reflect the needs of the current specifications. The new edition starts by examining the weakness of Liberal Italy and how the First World War increased its problems, before going on to analysing and explaining the rise of Fascism and Mussolini's subsequent consolidation of power. It also includes detailed chapters on life in Fascist Italy, its economy, politcal system and foreign policy before concluding with an examination of why Mussolini's regime collapsed in 1943. Throughout the book, key dates, terms and issues are highlighted, and historical interpretations of key debates are outlined. Summary diagrams are included to consolidate knowledge and understanding of the period, and exam style questions and tips for each examination board provide the opportunity to develop exam skills.