BENITO MUSSOLINI, (1883-1945), Fascist dictator of Italy from 1922 to 1943. He centralized all power in himself as the leader (il duce) of the Fascist party and attempted to create an Italian empire, ultimately in alliance with HITLER's Germany. The defeat of Italian arms in WORLD WAR II brought an end to his imperial dream and led to his downfall. Mussolini was born in Predappio, near Forli, in Romagna, on July 29, 1883. His father, Alessandro, was a blacksmith, …showed first 75 words of 4961 total…

…showed last 75 words of 4961 total…became involved with Hitler and aided him in World War II. After Italy was humiliated, Mussolini was captured by his own people who once loved him and he was killed. During his rule Mussolini changed the chaotic government that preceded him which did nothing to help the people of Italy and he help the lower classes which he sympathized with. To many Mussolini and his Fascist regime were feared, but in Italy they were loved.