Veronica Shei Period: 7 February 29, 2012 Comparing Lenin and Mussolini Introduction: Background: In the post war

eras many countries in Europe slid from a democracy to totalitarian rule. These dictators often promised order, and stability and won the backing of the military and the wealthy. Thesis: In this postwar era, two dictators named Vladimir Illyich Lenin came to rule in Russia through communism, while Benito Mussolini came to power through fascism, both Lenin and Mussolini formed secret armies to enforce their will, and both leaders brought the economy under state control. Body: I: Lenin rose to power through communism, while Mussolini rose to power through fascism. A. Lenin was a communist his entire life, Mussolini was originally a socialist in his youth. B. Lenin took over Russia in the November Revolution, while Mussolinis March on Rome was only a show because he had already been named prime minister earlier. II. Both dictators used the secret police to control their people. A. Lenin created a constitution and suffrage to citizens over 18, but in reality the secret police and the Bolsheviks reigned supreme, just like the Black Shirts and the Fascist party ruled in Italy. B. Unlike Lenin, Mussolini tried to assassinate any future political opponents. III. Both Lenin and Mussolini brought the economy under state control. A. Mussolini brought the economy under government control with capitalism still in place, while Lenin later adopted the New Economic Policy that had government control over the economy with some capitalistic ventures. B. Economy improved in both Italy and Russia, but Mussolinis Fascist controlled industry came at the expense of worker wages and the power to strike. Conclusion: Closing Statement: Both Lenin and Mussolini were dictators, Lenin came to power thorough communism while Mussolini gained power through fascism, both leaders had used the secret police to control their people, and both leaders had government control of the economy.