The Fascist’ Style of Rule’ is a book authored by Alexander J. De Grand and first published by Routledge in 1995; since then, the book has been revised in later editions. It is about fascism and Nazism, especially that which existed during the reign of Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler. It covers the entire reign of Adolf Hitler as the leader of the Nazi party and that of Mussolini as the leader and pioneer of fascism.
The book provides concise and provocative highlights on fascism and Nazism as experienced in Italy and Germany respectively. The author examines various aspect related to these two regimes including their similarities and differences at their infant stage of development, use of power by Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler, the connection between the two dictators and their regimes, and policies that impacted on the culture, youth and women. The author utilizes thought-provoking and original points of views that are backed by current historical research. Although De Grand makes a general comparison of the two regimes, he provides specific details to support his ideas. Note that the second edition of this book provides a comprehensive discussion on the military role within the two movements.
The author approves of the emergence of fascism and Nazism as reactions to specific “problems inherent in the structure of liberal politics” at the time (De Grand 5). This is indicated in his relative examination of the development of Nazism and Fascism, and especially where he explores the issues that form the basis of support for these parties by the disgruntled middle-classes of Germany and Italy after the World War I. What is more, the author views these developments as solutions to the society, indicating their similarities and differences in approaching the crisis that existed within Europe, and arguing in favor of the fascist rule.
Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany is intended for scholarly purpose although it should charm many lay leaders. It explores the nature and history of fascism and Nazism touching on the leadership of Mussolini of Italy and Hitler of Germany. This is ideal for academician wishing to venture into or beyond advanced subjects like the holocaust, military and political events, and leaders. Furthermore, its clarity in presentation of vital and complex historical ideas is a motivation for scholars to debate on various arguments and thesis.
The book explores both social and political aspects of the Germany Nazism and Italy fascism era. More emphasis is on the political history while social history comes in to augment his arguments. For instance, while attempting to put his ideas across, Alexander makes a comparison of the emergence of the two movements from their inception and development to be a force and the epitome of leadership through the onset World War II while focusing on how these movements managed to organize their states accordingly after obtaining power. Moreover, the central ideas in De Grand’s book is that social issues gave rise to political occurrences. In effect, the author gives great account of the social phenomenon that contributed to the rise of these movements, however, there is substantial examination of the effects of these movement to the society including impact on the youth, women and culture.
References
De Grand, Alexander J., Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany: The ‘Fascist’ Style of Rule, 1st edition, Routledge, New York, 1995.
De Grand, Alexander J., Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany: The ‘Fascist’ Style of Rule, 2nd edition, Routledge, New York, 2004.