Rick Steves' Europe Season 8 Episode 104 The Story of Fascism in Europe

In the eighth season of Rick Steves' Europe, episode 104, viewers are taken on a journey through the dark history of fascism in Europe. The episode tells the story of how fascism emerged in Italy after World War I and quickly spread across Europe, ultimately leading to the devastating events of World War II.

Throughout the episode, Rick Steves explores some of the most significant landmarks and locations associated with fascism in Europe. He visits the Piazza del Duomo in Milan, where Benito Mussolini first addressed his supporters in 1919, and the streets of Rome where Mussolini's blackshirted fascists marched and terrorized their opponents.

Steves also visits the concentration camps of Dachau and Auschwitz, where millions of innocent people were systematically slaughtered during the Holocaust. As he walks through the same gates that prisoners entered over 70 years ago, Steves reflects on the horrors of fascism and the importance of remembering the past to prevent such atrocities from happening again.

The episode also takes a closer look at the nature of fascist ideology, examining the fascist obsession with order, discipline, and the perceived threat of "otherness." Steves explores how these ideas manifested in the fascist leader's policies towards minorities, immigrants, and political opponents. He also examines the role of propaganda in promoting and justifying fascist policies and the importance of dissent in a healthy democracy.

Throughout the episode, Steves speaks with historians and experts to gain a deeper understanding of how fascism emerged and spread throughout Europe in the 20th century. The experts provide valuable insights into the antecedents of fascism, including the historical and political context of Italy and Germany in the early 20th century.

The episode concludes with a call to action for viewers to learn from the past and work to build more inclusive and democratic societies. Steves emphasizes the need to look beyond borders and recognize the shared humanity that unites us all.

Overall, The Story of Fascism in Europe is a powerful and timely episode that sheds light on one of the darkest periods in modern history. Through engaging storytelling and expert analysis, the episode highlights the dangers of fascism and the importance of standing up for democratic values and human rights. Whether for history enthusiasts or those looking to be informed about current events, this episode is a must-see for anyone seeking to understand the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of preserving democracy.