Mussolini National Project In Argentina: Unveiling the Hidden History

In the aftermath of World War II, as the world struggled to rebuild and make sense of the devastation, a shadowy figure emerged from the ruins of Italy: Benito Mussolini. The former fascist dictator had escaped to Argentina, where he sought refuge and plotted his return to power.

Mussolini's National Project in Argentina (The Fairleigh Dickinson University Press Series in Italian Studies)

by David Aliano

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	913 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	221 pages

FREE

Argentina, a country with a long history of political instability and a significant Italian immigrant population, provided fertile ground for Mussolini's ambitions. The Fairleigh Dickinson University Press is proud to present "Mussolini National Project In Argentina," a groundbreaking new book that sheds light on this fascinating and little-known chapter in history.

Mussolini's Arrival in Argentina

In April 1945, as Allied forces closed in on Milan, Mussolini and his entourage fled to Switzerland. After a brief stay, they made their way to Argentina, where they were welcomed by a sympathetic government.

Mussolini's arrival in Argentina caused a sensation. He was greeted by cheering crowds of Italian immigrants and fascists, who saw him as a symbol of their lost homeland. The Argentine government, eager to bolster its relationship with Italy, granted him political asylum and a comfortable residence in the countryside.

Establishing a Base of Operations

Once settled in Argentina, Mussolini wasted no time in establishing a base of operations. He founded the "Partido Fascista Argentino" (Argentine Fascist Party) and began to recruit followers from the local Italian community.

Mussolini's supporters were a diverse group that included veterans of the Italian Social Republic, former Black Shirts, and disillusioned Argentines seeking a strong leader. Together, they formed a network of cells and propaganda outlets that spread Mussolini's message throughout the country.

The National Project

At the heart of Mussolini's ambitions in Argentina was the "National Project." This plan envisioned a fascist revival in Italy, with Mussolini returning to power as its undisputed leader.

The National Project involved a complex web of political, economic, and military strategies. Mussolini sought to build a coalition of right-wing forces in Italy, establish economic ties with Argentina, and train a paramilitary force that would eventually invade Italy and overthrow the post-war government.

Collaborators and Allies

Mussolini did not act alone in his National Project. He was aided by a network of collaborators and allies, both in Argentina and abroad.

In Argentina, Mussolini found support from a group of wealthy Italian immigrants known as the "Big Five." These men provided financial backing, logistical assistance, and political influence to his movement.

Outside Argentina, Mussolini maintained contacts with fascist and neo-fascist groups in Europe and the United States. He hoped to use these connections to garner international support for his National Project.

The Cold War and the CIA

The outbreak of the Cold War complicated Mussolini's plans. The United States, now allied with Italy against the Soviet Union, was determined to prevent the resurgence of fascism in Europe.

The CIA, the American intelligence agency, kept a close eye on Mussolini's activities in Argentina. They infiltrated his movement, gathered intelligence, and disrupted his plans.

The Plot to Invade Italy

Despite the challenges, Mussolini refused to abandon his dream of returning to power. In 1947, he launched a daring plot to invade Italy and seize control of the government.

The plot involved a group of Italian exiles and Argentine fascists who would land on the Italian coast and spark a popular uprising. Mussolini planned to join the invasion force and lead the march on Rome.

Failure and Death

The invasion plot was doomed to failure. The Italian authorities were tipped off by the CIA, and the invaders were arrested before they could land. Mussolini's hopes of a fascist revival were shattered.

Disillusioned and broken, Mussolini retreated from public life and spent his remaining years in seclusion. He died in 1952, at the age of 69, a forgotten figure in the annals of history.

Legacy and Impact

Mussolini's National Project in Argentina was a complex and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to revive fascism in Italy. However, its legacy continues to resonate today.

The book "Mussolini National Project In Argentina" provides a fascinating glimpse into this forgotten chapter in history. It sheds light on Mussolini's ambitions, his collaborators, his plots, and his ultimate failure.

By understanding this history, we can better appreciate the fragility of democracy and the importance of fighting against extremism in all its forms.

"Mussolini National Project In Argentina" is a must-read for anyone interested in modern history, fascism, or the role of Argentina in the post-war world. It is a well-researched, engaging, and thought-provoking book that offers valuable insights into a complex and controversial era.

Free Download your copy today from Fairleigh Dickinson University Press and delve into the hidden history of Mussolini's National Project in Argentina.

Mussolini's National Project in Argentina (The Fairleigh Dickinson University Press Series in Italian Studies)

by David Aliano

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	913 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	221 pages

FREE