The Dictator's Playbook

S01E03 Benito Mussolini

This episode explores how Italian dictator Benito Mussolini ascended to power, establishing Italy as the first fascist regime. Known as "Il Duce" (the leader), he was a skilled propagandist who captivated audiences with grandiloquent speeches that glorified fascist ideals and vowed to restore Italy's former glory reminiscent of Ancient Rome. However, his rule devolved into a one-party dictatorship, allowing him to maintain control for an oppressive twenty years.