Defining Fascism

According to [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/topic/fascism), fascism is a political ideology and mass movement characterized by extreme militant nationalism, hatred of communism and socialism, contempt for democracy, and belief in authoritarian leadership.

Scholars at [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fascism) describe it as a movement that rose to prominence in early-20th-century Europe, though its exact ideological roots remain debated.

• Far-right, authoritarian, and ultranationalist in character

• Demands a dictatorial leader and centralized autocracy

• Relies on militarism and forcible suppression of opposition

• Rejects liberal democracy, Marxism, and individual freedoms

• Promotes the state and nation above all else