Bombastic Italian dictator and leader of the National Fascist Party (1883 -- 1945). Known as “Il Duce”, he brought Italy into the Axis powers. Early and boldly penned ALS in French, signed “Mussolini,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 6.75 x 9, Il Presidente del Consiglio Dei Ministri letterhead, no date, but envelope postmarked December 22, 1922. Letter reads, in full: “Your article that has been translated already on Il Giornale di Roma and Il Popolo d’Italia [Newspapers] has touched me deeply. I don’t know if there have been any other men who have so quickly understood a mind as you have done it. Yes, my task is heavy but I am certain that I will not miss my goal. And I work.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Mussolini’s hand, as well as a previous Sotheby’s sales folder. In fine condition, with a few small tape reinforcements to edge of reverse of second page.
Mussolini styled himself in the mold of Roman emperors and had ambitions to match. In this letter, the “heavy task” he refers to is probably the formation of a New Roman Empire, his openly-stated purpose. Two months earlier, he had carried out his infamous March on Rome; King Victor Emmanuel, fearing a bloodbath, appeased Mussolini with the title of Prime Minister. Over the following years he systematically eliminated democracy and dragged Italy deeper into Fascism and imperialism. The letter provides a rather frightening look into the dark mind of a fanatic. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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