Italy's National Fascist Party (PNF)

Definition

A political party ruling Italy from 1922 to 1943 under the leadership of Benito Mussolini. This party established totalitarian rule characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of oppositions, strong regimentation of society and economy which came to be known as fascism.

Analogy

Imagine PNF as an overbearing school principal who insists on controlling every aspect of school life - what you learn, who you talk to, even what you wear - all while suppressing any form of dissent or criticism.

Related terms

Benito Mussolini: An Italian politician who led the National Fascist Party ruling the country from 1925 until his ousting in 1943 during World War II.

Totalitarianism: A system of government that is centralized and dictatorial requiring complete subservience to the state.

Fascism: A form of far-right, authoritarian political ideology that is characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition and strong regimentation of society and economy.