How Accurate Is the Claim That the Effects of World War I Were the Most Important Reason for the Rise of Totalitarian Governments in Europe During the Period to 1939

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Date Submitted: 03/23/2012 12:42 AM

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In this paper is about discussing how far the First world war as most important reason for the rise of totalitarian government in Italy and Germany during the period of 1939. This essay also includes other factors that led to the rise of totalitarian government.

It is believe that the effects of the First World War were the most important reason for the rise of these totalitarian governments. However, there are other factors before the war and the First World War were just seen that Italy was in need for development. In addition, without the determination and brilliant strategic plans of the Fascists, the rise of totalitarian governments would have been impossible.

Before the First World War, Italy was already facing economic and political difficulties. The unification of Italy was achieved in 1870. A constitutional monarchy governed the country however, there were corrupted politicians that bribed voters to win elections. After that, they were more interested in making personal gains for themselves when they were in power rather than helping to get rid of the social and economic and social problems of the Italians. Consequently, by 1914 Italy remained a poor and backward country. Additionally, industrial progress was slow and Italy suffered from the disadvantage of having a lack of fertile land and little natural resources.

The majority of farm labourers were landless and often unemployed. During imperialism, many Italians were forced to leave their lands. Italy tried to gain international prestige by acquiring overseas colonies however she was unsuccessful. She was defeated by the African state, Abyssinia, at the battle of Adowa in 1896.This shows that Italy was unsuccessful in both domestic and foreign policy.

It was during this time that Italy was at the developing progress and joining war would cause destruction. However, in 1914, Italy joined the First World War. After this war, the government and people of Italy were faced with many new problems. Italy...