Benito Mussolini (1883-1945) was an Italian political leader who founded and led the National Fascist Party. He served as Prime Minister of Italy from 1922 to 1943.

• Rise to Power: Mussolini initially was a socialist, but his nationalistic views during World War I led him to found the Fascist movement in 1919. Source: Britannica
• Fascist Ideology: Fascism, as promoted by Mussolini, was characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, militarism, and the suppression of opposition. He aimed to restore Italy to the glory of the Roman Empire. Source: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
• Dictatorship: Through political maneuvering and violence by his Blackshirts, Mussolini consolidated power, creating a totalitarian state where he was known as "Il Duce" (The Leader). Source: History.com
• World War II: Mussolini allied Italy with Nazi Germany in World War II. This alliance proved disastrous for Italy, leading to military defeats and the loss of its African colonies.
• Downfall and Death: In 1943, Mussolini was overthrown and arrested. He was later rescued by German forces and briefly headed a puppet state in northern Italy. In 1945, as the war neared its end, he was captured and executed by Italian partisans.