If you think Hitler created all that madness alone, you would be wrong. Benito Mussolini aided Hitler and was just as power hungry and bloodthirsty as was Hitler. Mussolini's modest beginnings and rise to power mirrored Hitler's. And like Hitler, after attaining high positions in the Italian Government, he took control of Italy. Mussolini formed an alliance with the more powerful Germany, and enjoyed the benefits of having a strong friend in Hitler. His actions during World War II, and the manner in which he treated the citizens of Italy led to his downfall. His relationship with Hitler helped him survive his first political defeat, but also led to his death.

Mussolini entered parliament in 1921 as a right-wing member (Smith). Mussolini believed heavily in Fascism and tried to convert the Italian government from its liberal government under Giovanni Giolitti, Ivanoe Bonomi, and Luigi Facta. The liberal government failed...