The Pete Quiñones Show Episode 1308: Late-War Mussolini w/ Kurt from Antelope Hill
Dec 21, 2025
Kurt from Antelope Hill, a translator and editor specializing in historical works, joins the discussion on Mussolini's late-war speeches from 1943-1945. He delves into Mussolini's dramatic return to power and the formation of the Italian Social Republic. The conversation highlights Mussolini's unyielding commitment to the Axis, his ideological fervor, and the unique aspects of Italian fascism compared to Nazism. Kurt argues that the stubborn resistance of fascism enriches its historical legacy, making it memorable for future generations.
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Episode notes
Mussolini Reclaims Ideological Control
- Mussolini's 1943–1945 speeches show he regained full ideological control after his rescue and return to Northern Italy.
- Kurt (Antelope Hill) argues this period reveals Mussolini implementing fascist goals without monarchist or conservative restraints.
Famous Units Kept Fighting
- Pete and Kurt recall Mussolini's forces included notable units like the San Marco marines and Decima Mas commandos.
- They describe these units continuing to fight under the Italian Social Republic after 1943.
Doubling Down Despite Hopeless Odds
- Mussolini urged Italians to persevere and doubled down on Axis loyalty even when defeat became likely.
- Kurt notes Mussolini framed resistance as necessary for history and posterity, not merely tactical survival.