Designed for secondary school and college student research, this work is a readable history and ready reference guide to the rise of fascism and the forces that brought about World War II. An introductory essay presents the most recent scholarship in a clear overview of the development of fascism in Germany and Italy. Additional essays analyze the crucial aspects of the history of fascism—from the facists' seizure of power in Italy and Germany, to the economy and society of these nations to the resistance to these governments. A concluding essay assesses the impact and legacy of Hitler and Mussolini and discusses fascism in other countries. Ready reference features include a chronology of events, lengthy biographical profiles of 15 key figures, the text of 15 key primary documents, a glossary of selected terms, and a bibliographical essay.