Written by a senior examiner, this highly accessible text concentrates on Italian history from the period directly after unification through to the end of the Second World War. Opening with chapters on the period 1870-1918, the text goes on to deal with the main issues and events surrounding the rise of Fascism as a political force. Mussolini's consolidation of power, ideology, economic, social and foreign policies, and eventual downfall are given detailed coverage. The author concludes with a chapter on the main issues that faced post-war Italy up to the end of Aldo Moro's life and the subsequent danger to democracy faced by the country.