The messianization of the leader: Mass propaganda in communist and fascist regimes

Abstract

The following article analyzes the dictatorial regimes of the twentieth century, discussing both their homogenous and heterogeneous features. We begin with the premise that their origins were particularly varied, encompassing military coups, populist revolutions, mass movements in the postwar period and even in democracies legitimately accepted by the international community. Our hypothesis is that the degree of mass indoctrination and popular acceptance was highly diverse, not to mention the fact that a dictator’s concentrated power is immense, as well as gradual, ranging from authoritarianism to tyranny. Despite their comprehensive military support, dictators had to utilize leadership and oratory skills as well as a strong dose of popular messianization. In subjecting a population to a single indisputable authority, a leader must make continual use of tools of popular acceptance in order to prevent future uprisings. Communism and fascism have been dealt with, however it is important to determine not only what separates them, but also what unites them.