Totalitarianism in Europe: 1920s-1930s

D·

History

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At a Glance

Grade Level10th Grade

SubjectHistory

Original Prompt

The day after lecturing on the Rise of the Soviet Union during the 1920s and 1930s, I plan on having the 10th grade World History students work on a packet that explores the Rise of Fascism in Germany and Italy. I want them to first be able to compare and contrast the communism and fascism that emerges in this time period, how it connects to the end of WWI, and compare/contrast Hitler and Mussolini as figures, leaders, and the strategies they use to consolidate power and gather support. I want i...

This learning resource delves into the rise of extremism in Europe following World War I, focusing on the analysis and comparison of fascism and communism. It examines the critical economic and social conditions that facilitated the emergence of these totalitarian regimes, particularly in Germany and Italy. The document outlines the impact of severe economic hardships such as hyperinflation and national trauma stemming from the war, which destabilized democratic foundations. Through inquiry-based learning, including essential questions, primary sources, and comparative analysis, students explore the ideologies, leadership tactics, and methods these regimes employed to consolidate power. It encourages reflection on the historical context of these movements and their implications, particularly in connection to subsequent events such as the Holocaust and World War II.