ENGLISH
REFERENCE

fascism

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˈfæˌʃɪzəm// UK //fˈæʃɪzəm// fas·cism Vulgar

n. a political system where a single ruler has complete power and controls everything. The government does not allow anyone to disagree, often using strong military force and extreme national pride to keep control.

n. an authoritarian, ultra-nationalist political ideology and system of government. It is characterised by a dictatorial leader, strict obedience to the state, and the forcible suppression of political opposition.


SIMPLE

The country suffered under fascism for over twenty years before the dictator fell.

CONTEXTUAL

During the 1930s, fascism spread across several European nations as leaders promised to restore order and national pride through absolute control.

COMPLEX

Historians often debate the precise definition of fascism, but most agree it involves extreme nationalism, the suppression of democratic institutions, and the militarisation of society.

Usage

Often capitalised when referring specifically to Mussolini's regime in Italy, but lowercased for the broader political ideology.

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