How the Great Depression Helped Drive the World Towards Fascism

The Great Depression, starting in 1929, had a profound impact on global politics. Widespread unemployment, poverty, and economic instability created fertile ground for extremist ideologies. People disillusioned with democracy's perceived failures were increasingly drawn to charismatic leaders promising order and national revival. This atmosphere of despair and desperation allowed fascist movements, with their nationalistic fervor and promises of strong leadership, to gain traction in several countries. The Depression's economic hardship intensified pre-existing social tensions, fueling resentment and a search for scapegoats, often targeted by fascist rhetoric.