The Struggle for Modernity

During the 20th century, Italy experienced some regrettable political developments. It was the first European nation after World War I in which a mass militia-party of revolutionary nationalism achieved power and abolished parliamentary democracy with the goal of building a totalitarian state. It was also the first in Europe to institutionalize the sacralization of politics and to celebrate officially the cult of the leader as a demi-God. In this book, the author analyzes the ideological undercurrents and cultural myths that unite various 20th century Italian nationalist movements, from the radical nationalism of "La Voce" to futurist nationalism and fascism.