Fascism is defined as "an authoritarian, right-wing nationalist system of government and social organization." Peter Hyland reports that throughout the 1920s and 1930s, an economic depression developed and spread throughout the world. People were losing faith in their democracies and in capitalism. Leaders who rose to power supported powerful militarism, nationalism, and initiated the return of authoritarian rule. JR Oppenheimer says that the rise of fascism and totalitarianism in Europe and Russia provided a "crucial step on the road to war." In 1922, Benito Mussolini held power in Italy, promising a competent, militaristic nationalist state. During his tenure as prime minister, he gained a large group of supporters, banned government denigration, and used extreme violence against his enemies within Parliament. According to Oppenheimer, Adolf Hitler idolized Mussolini's rise and respected his tactics to rise to power. Hitler was a violent leader who brought for example "corporatism" which contributed greatly to the later policies we still practice today. Corporatism was essential to the economic totalitarianism practiced by Mussolini and Hitler. It was adopted by Italy and Germany and eventually became a model for policymakers in Europe and the United States. American leaders instead used the term “planned capitalism” rather than “fascism.” British intellectuals are perhaps most attached to anyone who sees the positive aspects of fascism. They too reflected Mussolini's ideals and believed that he was a responsible leader who takes