Black Shirts facts for kids

The Black Shirts were a special group of people in Italy who strongly supported Benito Mussolini and his Fascist ideas. They were like a private army or a police force for the Fascist party. Their official name was the Voluntary Militia for National Security (MVSN). They wore black shirts as part of their uniform, which is how they got their famous nickname.

The Black Shirts: Who Were They?

The Black Shirts were a group of people who believed in Fascism. This was a political idea that became very popular in Italy after World War I. They were loyal to Benito Mussolini. They helped him gain power and stay in charge of Italy.

What Was Fascism?

Fascism is a type of government where one strong leader has all the power. People are expected to be very loyal to their country and its leader. It often involves a strong military and a focus on national pride. In Italy, Fascism was led by Benito Mussolini.

How Did They Start?

The Black Shirts started in 1919. They were first known as the "Squadristi." Many of their members were former soldiers from World War I. They were often unhappy with the way Italy was being run. They believed that Italy needed a strong leader to make it powerful again. They used their strength to support Mussolini's political goals.

Their Role with Mussolini

The Black Shirts were very important to Benito Mussolini. They helped him become the leader of Italy. For example, in 1922, they marched on Rome. This event, called the March on Rome, helped Mussolini take control of the government. After Mussolini became Prime Minister, the Black Shirts became an official part of the Italian government. They were renamed the Voluntary Militia for National Security (MVSN).

What Did They Do?

The Black Shirts helped Mussolini keep control of Italy. They supported his policies and helped spread Fascist ideas. They were involved in many activities to show the strength of the Fascist party. They took part in parades and public events. They also helped enforce the laws and rules set by Mussolini's government. They were active in different parts of Italy and even in other countries where Italy had influence.

The End of the Black Shirts

The Black Shirts continued to exist throughout Mussolini's rule. They were involved in various conflicts and wars that Italy participated in. However, as World War II progressed and Italy faced defeat, the power of the Fascist party and the Black Shirts weakened. The Black Shirts were officially disbanded in 1943. This happened when Mussolini was removed from power.

Images for kids

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  Blackshirts with Benito Mussolini during the March on Rome, 28 October 1922.

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  Parade of the Blackshirts on Corso Libertà in Bolzano, c. 1930.

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  Blackshirts on Piazza di Siena [it] in Rome, 1936.

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  Command of the 73rd Blackshirt Legion in Mirandola, Province of Modena, 1941.

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  Palace of the Militia [it] in Mirandola, Province of Modena, c. 1930.

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  Blackshirts seize a railway station of the Ethio-Djibouti Railways in Dire Dawa, May 1936.

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  Artillery of the 2nd CC.NN. Division "28 Ottobre" in Ethiopia, 1936.

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  Blackshirts during Operation Barbarossa, 1941.

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  Benito Mussolini as First Honorary Corporal of the MVSN.

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  Former MVSN Chief of Staff Achille Starace wearing the black fez, black shirt and tie, and black collar flames on the tunic lapels.

See also

In Spanish: Milicia Voluntaria para la Seguridad Nacional para niños