Evaluate the factors that contributed to Mussolini's rise to power in 1922.

Benito Mussolini’s rise to power is often associated with the March on Rome in October 1922. This was a meaningful and symbolic event, and Mussolini was able to carry it out after having established some influence and popularity. The factors that contributed to this were started in 1919 with the establishment of the Fascist programme and of the Fasci di combattimento. The time in which these were formed was crucial: in the aftermath of WWI Italy, as well as the rest of Europe, was confronted with a deep social crisis. Furthermore, 1917 the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia brought the fear that a communist uprising might arise in other countries as well. Because of these reasons, Mussolini's Fasci were supported by the government notwithstanding their violent nature as they seemed to be the only thing capable to calm the civil unrest. As well as by using violence, Mussolini became influential because of his skillful use of art and propaganda, setting fascist ideals and spreading them throughout the country. He used manifestos (such as the Futuristic ones), cinema, radio, and newspapers to extend the influence of fascism in all aspects of life. All of these factors made Mussolini well known and popular in Italy, supported by more and more Italians but also by the government, and this is what led him to his rise to power in 1922.