How did Mussolini consolidate his position in government? 1922-1924

How did Mussolini consolidate his position in government? 1922-1924

1. He was given emergency powers for one year to sort out Italy's problems

   • he doesn't change the government - instead makes deals with the church, elite, landowners and business owners

2. He set up the Fascist Grand Council to rival the Parliamentary Cabinet

   • He also set up a private militia and recruited from Fascist squads

3. July 1923 - The Acerbo Law was passed - parties with 25% of the vote won 2/3rds of the seats - Fascists rigged votes

   • 1924 elections - rivals won't unite
     • Fascists used violence, bribery and intimidation to manipulate - Fascist voters could vote more than once
     • 1924 - Fascists won 66% of the vote

4. Support from the Elites

   • They didn't want anarchy - Mussolini knew how to avoid it
   • They believed he could restore social peace and get rid of socialism
   • They liked his new militia and he apparently public services
   • He brought Italy together