Ep 6. The Death of Mussolini

In the sixth episode of season four of Forbidden History, viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the truth behind the death of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. The episode, aptly titled "The Death of Mussolini," aims to explore the conspiracy theories that abound about how the infamous leader met his demise.

At the heart of the episode is historian Jamie Theakston, who travels to Italy to meet with experts and eyewitnesses who were present in the moments leading up to Mussolini's death. Theakston starts his investigation in Rome and visits the cell where Mussolini was imprisoned in the last days of his life. He learns that a partisan group captured Mussolini as he tried to flee the country toward Switzerland, and that he was taken to the village of Mezzegra, where he was held in captivity along with his mistress, Clara Petacci.

The episode brings to light one of the most contentious questions surrounding Mussolini's death — was he executed on site by partisans, or was his death in the hands of the fascist government? To get answers, Theakston talks to people who were part of the death squad who allegedly killed Mussolini. He also visits the Villa Belmonte, where the fascist government had relocated after they fled Rome.

Historians and experts offer insights into the events that led up to the dictator's death. They talk about Mussolini's relationship with Hitler and how it affected his downfall. There is also discussion about the role the Italian people played in Mussolini's demise, and how they ultimately saw his leadership as a form of oppression.

The episode also explores the folklore and conspiracy theories surrounding Mussolini's death. Theakston visits a group of locals who claim that Mussolini did not die on the day he was reportedly killed, and that he managed to escape and live out the remainder of his life under a pseudonym. Theakston evaluates this theory critically, and makes an effort to dispel common misconceptions and legends about the dictator's death.

Viewers will also learn about the events that occurred after Mussolini's death, including the desecration of his corpse, the handling of his remains, and the eventual trial of his captors. The episode sheds light on the significance of Mussolini's death, and how it marks an end to a dark chapter in Italian history.

Overall, "The Death of Mussolini" is a gripping episode that succeeds in unraveling the mysteries surrounding the death of one of the most notorious dictators in history. With insightful interviews, gorgeous scenery, and rich historical context, the episode offers viewers a chance to learn about the circumstances surrounding Mussolini's demise, while also uncovering the truth behind the myths and legends that have come to surround it.