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Communism, Fascism, and Authoritarianism: A Comparative Analysis of Ideologies and Practices in the Interwar Years

Ervin Bell

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Published in Assault On Democracy: Communism Fascism And Authoritarianism During The Interwar Years

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The interwar period between the first and second World Wars was marked by political and economic upheaval as Europe and the world struggled to rebuild after the devastation of the Great War. In this climate of uncertainty and fear, three political ideologies emerged as dominant forces: communism, fascism, and authoritarianism. Each of these ideologies offered a distinct vision for the future, shaping the political landscape of the interwar years and leaving a lasting impact on the course of world history.

Class Struggle: Communism is based on the Marxist theory that history is driven by a conflict between two classes: the oppressors (bourgeoisie) and the oppressed (proletariat). Communism aims to overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a classless society where all means of production are owned in common.
State Ownership: Communists believe that the economy should be controlled by the state, which will distribute resources equally among all citizens. Private property and the profit motive are abolished to eliminate class differences.
Vanguard Party: Communists advocate for a revolutionary vanguard party composed of the most dedicated and conscious members of the proletariat. This party will guide the revolution and establish a dictatorship of the proletariat during the transition period before true communism can be achieved.

Ultranationalism: Fascism emphasizes the importance of the nation as the highest form of political and social organization. It glorifies the state and promotes a sense of national superiority and unity.
Totalitarianism: Fascism seeks to establish a totalitarian state that controls every aspect of public and private life. Individual rights and freedoms are suppressed, and society is organized hierarchically with the leader at the top.
Charismatic Leadership: Fascist regimes are often led by a charismatic figure who embodies the ideals of the movement and commands the unwavering loyalty of his followers. This leader is often portrayed as a savior or a father figure.

Centralized Power: Authoritarian regimes concentrate power in the hands of a single person or a small group. They often suspend democratic institutions and establish a repressive apparatus to maintain control.
Limited Pluralism: While authoritarian regimes do not tolerate political opposition, they may allow the existence of limited pluralism in other spheres, such as the economy or religion.
Traditional Values: Authoritarian regimes often promote traditional values and social hierarchies, emphasizing obedience, authority, and the importance of the family.

Soviet Union: The Soviet Union became the first communist state after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917. The Bolsheviks established a one-party state, collectivized agriculture, and implemented a centrally planned economy.
Nazi Germany: The Nazi Party came to power in Germany in 1933, establishing a fascist dictatorship under Adolf Hitler. The Nazis suppressed political dissent, established a totalitarian police state, and pursued a policy of aggressive expansionism.

Hungary: Authoritarian regimes under Miklós Horthy (1920-1944) and Ferenc Szálasi (1944-1945) suppressed political opposition, promoted traditional values, and allied with Nazi Germany.
Romania: King Carol II (1930-1940) established an authoritarian regime that combined elements of constitutional monarchy and personal dictatorship, curtailing civil liberties and suppressing political dissent.
Turkey: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1923-1938) led Turkey through a period of authoritarian reforms inspired by Western models. He promoted secularism, modernized the country, and established a one-party state.

The spread of communism, fascism, and authoritarianism had a profound impact on European politics in the interwar years. The rise of these ideologies fueled political polarization, undermined democratic institutions, and contributed to the outbreak of the Second World War.

Division of Europe: The ideologies of communism and fascism created a deep divide in Europe, leading to the formation of rival political blocs. The Soviet Union and its communist allies faced off against the fascist powers of Germany, Italy, and Japan.
Suppression of Dissent: Authoritarian regimes throughout Europe suppressed dissent and opposition, silencing critics and creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. This suppression of civil liberties undermined democratic traditions and paved the way for dictatorship.
Aggression and Expansionism: Fascist and authoritarian regimes pursued aggressive foreign policies, aiming to expand their territorial control and promote their ideologies. Nazi Germany's invasion of Poland in 1939 triggered the outbreak of World War II.

The legacy of communism, fascism, and authoritarianism in the interwar years continues to shape contemporary politics and society.

Assault on Democracy: Communism, Fascism, and Authoritarianism During the Interwar Years

by Maggy Anthony

5 out of 5

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The Cold War: The ideological divide between communism and capitalism formed the basis of the Cold War, a period of intense rivalry between the Soviet Union and the United States.
Democratic Backlash: The horrors of Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia led to a widespread backlash against authoritarianism and a renewed commitment to democracy in Western Europe.
Authoritarian Resurgence: In recent decades, authoritarian tendencies have resurfaced in various parts of the world, raising concerns about the threat to democratic values and human rights.

The interwar years were a period of ideological and political upheaval, during which communism, fascism, and authoritarianism emerged as dominant forces. These ideologies shaped the political landscape of Europe, contributing to the outbreak of World War II and leaving a lasting impact on world history. The study of these ideologies provides insights into the complexities of political extremism and the challenges of maintaining democracy in times of crisis.

Assault on Democracy: Communism, Fascism, and Authoritarianism During the Interwar Years

by Maggy Anthony

5 out of 5