Discover the dramatic story of Benito Mussolini with journalist and lecturer Adam Tanner. This program traces the rise of Italy’s fascist dictator, his consolidation of power, the reconciliation with the Vatican, overseas empire in Africa, evolving relationship with Adolf Hitler, and impact of his policies on Jewish communities and Italian society. Developing throughout this history is a growing cult of personality that portrayed the dictator as a genius in many fields, from a mastery of skiing and the violin to a willingness to join workers in harvesting crops and helping lay bricks.

Tanner also looks at how Mussolini changed how Italy looks today, as many fascist buildings —from imposing government structures to grand public monuments—remain in Rome and other cities across the country. A mix of historical context and striking visual examples reveals how Mussolini’s rule left a lasting mark, showing both the ambition and the darker consequences of his rule.

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