How did Mussolini change the Italian government structure?

Mussolini transformed the Italian government into a one-party fascist dictatorship, centralising all power in his hands.

Benito Mussolini, the founder of Italian Fascism, dramatically altered the Italian government structure after he came to power in 1922. His regime, known as the Fascist regime, was characterised by a one-party rule, centralisation of power, and a cult of personality. Mussolini's transformation of the Italian government was a gradual process, marked by a series of laws and decrees that systematically dismantled the democratic institutions of the country.

In the early years of his rule, Mussolini worked within the existing constitutional framework. However, he gradually eroded democratic institutions and civil liberties. The Acerbo Law of 1923, for instance, changed the electoral system to give the party with the most votes two-thirds of the seats in parliament. This law paved the way for the Fascist Party's complete control over the Italian parliament.

In 1925, Mussolini declared a dictatorship, marking the end of any semblance of democracy in Italy. He passed the 'Laws of Exception', which gave him the power to rule by decree. This meant that he could make laws without the approval of the parliament. Mussolini also established a secret police force, the OVRA, to suppress political dissent. The press was censored, and opposition parties were banned.

Mussolini also sought to centralise power in his hands. He held multiple positions in the government, including Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Minister of the Interior. He also created a new position for himself, 'Head of Government', which gave him direct control over the entire state apparatus.

The Fascist regime also promoted a cult of personality around Mussolini. He was portrayed as a strong, charismatic leader who was the embodiment of the Italian nation. This cult of personality was used to legitimise his rule and to foster a sense of national unity.

In conclusion, Mussolini's transformation of the Italian government was marked by the establishment of a one-party rule, the centralisation of power, and the creation of a cult of personality. His regime represented a complete departure from the democratic institutions that had previously existed in Italy.