The Matteotti Crisis (2h 52min, may 31, 1924 y – 23h 26min, jul 10, 1924 y)
Description:
Following the Acerbo election victory, the Socialists condemned the rigged result. On the 30th of May, 1924, Giacomo Matteotti, a Socialist Deputy, prepared a speech denouncing the violence and calling for a new election to be held. Fascists quickly interrupted his speech and shouted abuse at Matteotti.
On the 4th of June, Matteotti resumed his attack, but this time Mussolini stood to reply. He pointed out that many Fascists were killed and injured during the election campaign.
On the 10th of July, Matteotti was bundled in a car and stabbed to death. His death remained hidden for two months, dogs found his body, lying in a shallow grave 20 miles form Rome. Mussolini ordered an investigation into the matter. The car's registration number was tracked back to Filippo Filipelli, a leading Fascist. This lead lead to the murderer, Amergio Dumini, who was the personal assistant to Casare Rossi, Mussolini's press secretary.
Assumptions that Mussolini was behind the murder caused him to nearly lose power. Large crowds formed in the streets to protest. Communists called for a general strike.
Added to timeline:
Mussolini Consolidation of Power
Date:
