Political breakdown and the rise of extremism: strikes; political violence and the collapse of parliamentary government
Between 1919 and 1922, mass strikes paralysed Italy and Fascist squads attacked their opponents in the streets. Parliament failed to restore order, making extremist movements like Mussolini's Fascists appear to many as the only solution.
Real World
In September 1920, 400,000 workers occupied factories across northern Italy, including the Alfa Romeo plant in Milan, forcing industrialists to beg the government for protection it could not provide.
Exam Focus
Distinguish between cause and consequence: the Biennio Rosso caused fear among elites, which is a separate point from the strikes themselves — examiners reward this precision.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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