Countries like Germany and Italy faced massive economic and social hardships after World War I. This was one of the biggest reasons why countries like this turned to fascism and totalitarian style governments.
Germany is a perfect example of the aforementioned statement. Germany was blamed for World War I because of the Treaty of Versailles. This resulted in Germany having to pay billions of dollars in reparations to countries like France and Great Britain. This resulted in hyperinflation and the crashing of the German economy. During this time, Germans were looking for a leader who would restore Germany to their former glory. Hitler filled this cue, by playing off the anger, poor economic conditions, and the desire for revenge of the German citizens.