After scoring big in the parliament, Mussolini wanted to ensure he had an iron grip over the Fascist Party. So, he came up with the Grand Council of Fascism in December 1922. Think of it as Mussolini's VIP club where he called all the shots!

• What's the Grand Council of Fascism?
  • The "Big Boss" within the Fascist movement.
  • It was like a board of directors for the Fascist Party, discussing proposals and making big decisions.
• Who's in Charge?
  • Surprise, surprise! Mussolini himself chose the members.
  • So, even though there's a council, it's basically Mussolini's show because he picked his favorite players. 🎭

🍕 Real-world Example: Imagine you're hosting a pizza party and you get to choose all the toppings. Sure, others can suggest flavors, but since you're the one buying, it's your call! That's what Mussolini did with the Grand Council.

• Power Move: The Fascist Militia
  • Mussolini wanted to ensure his strength wasn't just in politics but also in sheer muscle power.
  • He transformed the Fascist squads into the MVSN (Milizia volontaria per la sicurezza nazionale) in January 1923.
  • What's the MVSN? Think of it as Mussolini's personal guards, but on steroids. Over 300,000 strong men, ready to do his bidding!

🏀 Real-world Example: You know how basketball teams have star players? Well, imagine a team where EVERY player is LeBron James. That's the kind of powerful, loyal force Mussolini was building.

• Why's this Militia Special?
  • They were paid by the state (AKA the country's money, not just the party's).
  • So, not only did Mussolini have a private army, but he also got the country to foot the bill!

🎮 Real-world Example: It's like playing a video game where not only do you have the best weapons, but the game also keeps giving you unlimited coins. Mussolini was playing on "easy mode" with these moves.