Evaluate the successes and failures of Mussolini’s domestic policies between 1922 and 1939.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the strengths and limitations of Mussolini’s policies in Italy in the given period. Responses may identify Mussolini’s aims in order to make a judgment on success. There should be consideration of political, economic and social policies. Politically, Mussolini’s aim was to remain in power and establish a one-party dictatorship. He had consolidated his political power and Italy had become a one-party state by 1926. Candidates may argue that there were still key institutions, such as the Church and monarchy, that limited his power. Economic policies considered may include the various “Battles” and how far they contributed to Mussolini’s goal of autarky (note the Battle for Land and Quota 90). Social policies to be considered may include those aimed at improving education and those targeting the youth. The Battle for Births and the impact of Dopolavoro may also be addressed and candidates may consider how far a Fascist society was developed. Candidates may argue that successes were largely superficial. Many policies were damaging, especially economic ones; however, politically Mussolini was successful as he remained in power until 1943.

The question required candidates to make an appraisal of the strengths and limitations of Mussolini’s policies in Italy in the given period. Some impressive breadth of knowledge was seen in answer to this question. Some candidates’ analysis of Mussolini’s domestic policies could have been more in-depth at times.