Final answer:
Mussolini's regime initiated a cultural revival focusing on the glory of ancient Rome, leading to extensive archaeological excavations and preservation. This affirmed Fascist Italy's connection to Rome's legacy and furthered Mussolini's propagandistic aims. Key projects like the Ara Pacis pavilion exemplified this movement. The correct option iB.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the 1930s under the leadership of Benito Mussolini, Italy saw significant changes that impacted both its society and the preservation of its archaeological heritage.
Mussolini, referring to himself as Il Duce, launched a cultural revival focused on glorifying the legacy of ancient Rome. This movement placed emphasis on excavating, restoring, and presenting archaeological sites as symbols of Fascist Italy's connection to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
For example, the regime sponsored the clearing of ruins that served to reinforce ideas about Roman identity, implying a continuity between the ancient empire and Mussolini's modern state.
The archaeological evidence in Rome was notably preserved and showcased. A prime example is the excavation and construction of a pavilion for the Ara Pacis by architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo, directed by Mussolini himself.
These actions allowed the regime to manipulate the historical narrative, claiming lineage from ancient Rome to instill national pride and justify its authoritarian rule.
This period provided crucial archeological discoveries and set a precedent for the modern exhibition of ruins, reminding viewers of Rome's past greatness and its influence on contemporary political ideology. The correct option is B.