Fascism and Socialism: A Troubled Rivalry

This chapter explores the rise of fascism as a counter-ideology to socialism, particularly among the working class, and discusses how early socialists misjudged this threat. It examines the Bolsheviks' naive optimism following the October Revolution and the disconnection between socialist ideals and political realities during World War I. The narrative also addresses the violent backlash against pacifist socialists and the subsequent appeal of extremist movements, reflecting on the psychological impact of disillusioned war veterans in shaping nationalist sentiment.