Final answer:
Fascism in Italy and Germany prior to World War II was characterized by violence, ultranationalist patriotism, propaganda, and totalitarian government led by a dictator.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fascism in Italy and Germany prior to World War II was characterized by several key characteristics:
- Use of violence to seize and maintain political power: Fascist leaders, such as Mussolini in Italy and Hitler in Germany, employed violent tactics to suppress opposition and solidify their control.
- Ultranationalist patriotism: Fascism emphasized extreme nationalism, promoting a strong sense of national identity and superiority.
- Use of propaganda as a means of political control: Fascist regimes utilized propaganda to influence public opinion, shape national narratives, and suppress dissenting views.
- Totalitarian government led by a dictator: Fascist regimes were characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a single leader who held absolute authority.