The primary long term causes for Mussolini's ability to establish dictatorship is that Fascism was always seen as less of an enemy than socialism, particularly by key sectional groups- the Monarchy, and also the Church. More significant, short-term causes were the use of intimidation seen at the 1924 election and the passing of the 'Acerbo Law'. Also, Mussolini once said that 'all you need to govern are policemen and bands playing in the streets.' Mussolini's organised leisure activities for both adults and children gained him support, particularly from an indoctrinated younger generation.
The above, however, is only one side of the coin. Fascist strength became even stronger directly because of the weakness of the opposition. The Aventine Succession could be said to have been the self-destruction of the Italian State.…
