Final answer:
Fascism is characterized by extreme nationalism, the establishment of a dictatorship, and the use of military forces, with leaders like Mussolini exemplifying this by promoting state control and militant unity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Aspects of Fascism
Fascism is a political ideology characterized by specific core aspects. The first aspect is extreme nationalism, where the state is glorified above all and citizens are united by heritage and identity, often to the exclusion of other groups. The second is the establishment of a dictatorship, where a single ruler has total power and forcefully suppresses opposition and criticism. Lastly, fascism involves the use of military forces to maintain control and to pursue aggressive expansion and imperialism. Elimination of class systems and complete equality for all citizens are not aspects of fascism; rather, a social hierarchy is often embraced.
Leaders like Mussolini used nationalist sentiment and the desire for societal unity to gain power, implementing totalitarian regimes that controlled all facets of life. They sought to transform citizens into devoted nationalists, often promoting militarism and condoning violence against perceived enemies of the state.