“Fascism is a religion. The 20th century will be known in history as the century of fascism” (Fascist). These are the words of Benito Mussolini, an Italian journalist who founded his own political party. Born in 1883, Mussolini became involved in socialist politics in Switzerland when he moved there in 1902 (BBC). Although he was active in the Socialist Party, Mussolini began publishing editorials in support of World War I, which he himself wrote in 1915 (Mussolini). This led to his expulsion from the Socialist Party. Ready for major change, Mussolini brought together many nationalist groups in Italy and formed a single organization under his (Mussolini) leadership. Coming to power in the aftermath of the Great War, Benito Mussolini was a violent, military-minded dictator who saw to the emergence of the National Fascist Party in Italy. Although he was known for his extreme fascist ideas, Mussolini did not begin his political career as a right-wing radical. Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini was born on July 29, 1883 in Predappio, a town in north-central Italy (BBC). Job prospects in Italy were terrible, so Mussolini moved to Switzerland in 1902 and became involved in socialist politics, just like his father (BBC). Known for his exceptional eloquence and charisma, Mussolini quickly gained a reputation among Swiss socialists thanks to his strong journalism skills (Bio.com). However, he failed to find permanent employment, was arrested by Swiss authorities for vagrancy, and returned to Italy in 1904 due to his expulsion from Switzerland (Benito). There he continued to develop his oratorical skills and defend socialism (Mussolini). Mussolini was "energetic and authoritative" and...... middle of paper ......Andrea Mussolini." Home. Web. April 15, 2014. "Benito Mussolini." History.com. A&E Television Networks Web. April 11, 2014. .Downing, David Benito Mussolini. Chicago, IL: Heinemann Library, 2002. Print. “Fascist Personality Cults: Benito Mussolini.” About.com 20th Century Web. and George W. Bock Sources of the Western Tradition Boston: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2014. Print. " History.com. A&E Television Networks. Web. April 25. 2014..