Fascism describes the philosophy of government that stresses the primacy and glory of the state, unquestioning obedience to its leader, subordination of the individual will to the state's authority, and harsh suppression of dissent. Martial virtues are celebrated, while liberal democratic values are denigrated.

Twentieth-century fascism arose partly out of fear of the rising power of the lower classes and differed from contemporary communism (as practiced under Stalin) by its protection of the corporate and landowning powers and preservation of a class system.

The fascist governments that ruled Italy (1922-43), Germany (1933-45), and Spain (1939-75) were led by charismatic politicians (Mussolini, Hitler, Franco), who represented to their publics the strength that could rescue their nation from chaotic political and economic conditions.

Meanwhile in Japan, fascists (1936-45) fostered belief in the uniqueness of the Japanese spirit and reinforced the virtues of subordination to the state and personal sacrifice.

By the way, Mussolini coined the word totalitarianism and it first appeared in English in 1926, five years after fascism made its first appearance in print in English.