Origins of Antifascism
Antifascism emerged as a direct response to the rise of totalitarian regimes in the early 20th century. The first organized resistance movements appeared in Italy in the 1920s, opposing Benito Mussolini’s Fascist Party. Socialist, communist, and anarchist groups actively fought against fascism, recognizing its dangers early on.
The Rise of Mussolini and Early Opposition
After World War I, Italy faced severe economic turmoil, political instability, and widespread disillusionment. Benito Mussolini, a former socialist turned nationalist, founded the National Fascist Party (Partito Nazionale Fascista, PNF) in 1921. He capitalized on nationalist sentiment, promising to restore Italy’s strength through authoritarian rule.
Opposition to fascism grew quickly. In 1921, Italian socialists and communists founded Arditi del Popolo (People’s Commandos), the first militant antifascist organization. Comprised of workers, trade unionists, and former WWI veterans, Arditi del Popolo engaged in direct confrontations with Mussolini’s Blackshirts (Squadristi), who used violence to suppress dissent.
Early Antifascist Strategies
Antifascists in Italy adopted various strategies to counter Mussolini’s rise:
- Mass Protests: Labor unions organized general strikes against fascist violence.
- Community Defense: Antifascist groups protected working-class neighborhoods from fascist attacks.
- International Support: Leftist groups across Europe condemned Mussolini’s movement and aided Italian antifascists.
The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939)
The Spanish Civil War was one of the most defining antifascist struggles of the 20th century. It began on July 17, 1936, when a faction of the Spanish military, led by General Francisco Franco, launched a coup against the democratically elected Second Spanish Republic.
The Republican Side: Antifascist Resistance
The Republican faction, composed of socialists, communists, anarchists, and loyalists to the Spanish Republic, fought against Franco’s fascist uprising.
World War II and Global Antifascism
World War II saw the largest and most coordinated antifascist coalition in history, as the Allied powers—including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union—fought against the Axis powers led by Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Imperial Japan.
Modern Antifascism
In the 21st century, antifascism has remained an active force, adapting to the changing political landscape. The resurgence of far-right nationalism, the rise of authoritarian leaders, and the spread of online extremism have posed new challenges.
Trump's Second Term Policies
In early 2025, President Donald Trump commenced his second term with a series of executive actions impacting domestic and international policies.
Consolidation of Executive Power
One of the most controversial moves was an executive order granting the White House direct control over independent federal regulators, including the SEC, FTC, and FCC. Read more on AP News.
Restructuring the Federal Workforce
The administration has implemented significant changes within the federal workforce. Approximately 77,000 federal employees have departed following offers of payouts. Read more on Business Insider.
Immigration Policy Overhaul
President Trump signed Executive Order 14160, aiming to end birthright citizenship for children of unauthorized immigrants. Learn more on Wikipedia.