Main Character Index Superpowers: Großgermanisches Reich | United States of America Major Powers: Republic of China (GBASAR) | Union of Soviet Socialist Republics Minor Powers: Empire of Japan (Chōsen/Korea) | United Kingdom | Kingdom of Italy | French State | United States of Brazil | Argentine Republic | Union of South Africa | Republic of Indonesia | Commonwealth of Australia Other Nations (Europe): Spain | Ireland | Netherlands | Portugal Other Nations (The Americas): Mexico | Colombia | Venezuela Other Nations (Asia): Malaya | Singapore | Philippines | Vietnam | Afghanistan | Syria Other Nations (Africa): Egypt | Congo | Katanga Misc: Miscellaneous
open/close all folders
Kingdom of Italy
Official Name: Kingdom of Italy
Ruling Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
It has been long since the Italian eagle spread its wings over the Mediterranean, and it is only unfortunate that any conqueror finds itself face-to-face with a greater foe. Not long after the Triumvirate collapsed and the last barrier against German influence fell, the Italian Empire came under attack from all sides - be it from the Negus of Shewa and their American backers or the Ba'athists of Damascus and their German supporters. Were it not for Balbo, the Empire would not have survived. Since the catastrophes of the mid 20th century, Italy has instead focused on preserving Mussolini's legacy - but the world is catching up, and the sons of Rome wait impatiently for another protector to guide them through the unpredictable future. General Tropes
- Allohistorical Allusion: The events leading up to Italy's invasion of Sudan are reminiscent of those leading up to the American invasion of Afghanistan: With the Florence Bombing taking the role of 9/11, the EIJ taking the role of Al-Qaeda and Sudan taking the role of Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The Invasion of Sudan itself, on the other hand, mirrors the Iraq War.
- Assimilation Backfire: In hopes of populating their colonies with loyal Italian subjects, the Fascists encouraged mass migrations to Libya and Eritrea. Under Balbo, these settlers were encouraged to marry native Africans and thus assimilate them into Italian culture. While the Fascists succeeded in their goal of creating an European majority, the colonists have now become increasingly demanding in their calls for self-government and economic freedom, loathing the colonial administrators assigned to them by the Metropoli. In Eritrea, this has combined with dissatisfaction towards Fascist rule to create a niche political movement of European settlers who demand independence from the Metropoli and democratization, creating the total opposite of what the Fascists intended.
- Choosing Neutrality: Italy has remained neutral in the Cold War and focused on preserving what remains of its Empire and influence. Unfortunately for them, this has only created enemies in both Germania and Washington. Both superpowers want to get rid of Italian influence over Africa and the Middle East, with the Americans supporting Islamist organizations like the Muslim Brotherhood whereas the Germans supports pan-Arab countries and similar armed groups.
- Corrupt Politician: A form of corruption popularly known as La Regolatanote has become predominant in Italy, first emerging during the sixties in the form of the many under-the-table deals between the Italian government and the private sector. It has become common practice for party officials to receive kickbacks in exchange for "cutting the red tape" for their friends in business, breeding a culture of clientelism. This practice has become so common within the PNF that the few party members who do try to fight against corruption are either fired from their jobs or arrested on corruption charges.
- The Cycle of Empires: Under Mussolini, Italy became the master of the mediterranean, destroying the British empire and even rivaling Germany for some time. Under Ciano and Balbo, the empire experienced some setbacks, but was able to stabilize and prosper. Under Vidussoni, Birindelli and now Rastrelli, the Empire has become increasingly corrupt and plagued by bad leadership. The generation of conquerors and administrators is gone, and while the current rulers think of themselves as the former, they are a symptom of decay. Italy's decision to wage a costly war in Sudan only proves that the Italian Empire is in its third phase of existence, and it can possibly be violently dragged into its fourth and final phase of existence.
- Evil Colonialist: Italy is the last major colonial power in the African continent. Thanks to the extensive reforms made under Italo Balbo, the otherwise neglected colonies of North Africa (Tunisia and Libya) have been turned into an integral part of Italy's economy. However, this doesn't translate into prosperity for the Arabs or Berbers living in those colonies, who live as second-class citizens and are treated poorly by Italian colonists. The Italian government is indifferent to the suffering of the natives, and their response to any kind of protests only seems to come in the form of police batons or bullets.
- Failure Is the Only Option: It's impossible for Italy to win the Sudan War. After the Sudanese government is toppled, the Italian authority will be aimless and tasked with creating an entirely new government out of the power vacuum. Plans to colonize Sudan are thrown out of the window after one good look at the country, and the Italian military will inevitably get bogged down in a decade long occupation that will come to a sudden end with little fanfare, only leaving behind a country in ruins and a humiliated Empire.
- The Mafia: Although the Mafia doesn't have the same kind of influence in Italy as they do in our timeline, they are still active in regions like Calabria. While the Fascist Party claims the Mafia was eradicated decades ago, a good portion of local PNF politicians have some kind of relationship to the Mafia that often goes unnoticed.
- Middle Eastern Terrorists: Italy has developed an extremely negative reputation in the Arab World due to its imperialism and colonialism in North Africa. This has painted a large target on their backs, and Islamist extremely groups have chosen to retaliate for the oppression of their Muslim brothers by launching terrorist attacks in Italian-populated parts of Libya or in the Italian mainland itself.
- Repressive, but Efficient: While most Italians aren't particularly fond of Fascism and their corrupt Duces, the state is still able to provide for its citizenry and the Fascists have made sure to keep the trains running on time. Poverty isn't an issue and the Mafia, which once plagued much of Italy's poorer regions, was violently suppressed. This trope is Downplayed, however. The Metropoli's prosperity comes at the expense of Italy's colonial possessions, corruption is a known problem that is rarely addressed, and the Mafia slowly reappeared over the years and now work alongside the Fascists. If anything, the government is only able to maintain the illusion of being efficient.
- Resurgent Empire: If neither the United States nor Germany win the Cold War and subsequently collapse, Italy will take Germany's place as Europe's most important economic and military power and will have an opportunity to gain substantial influence in the following years, prolonging its empire and once again reaffirming its role as a regional power.
- Sentenced to Down Under: In an effort to turn Eritrea into a European-majority colony, Italy deported thousands of suspected dissidents to the colony, where they couldn't be of any danger to the Fascist's hold on power.
- Teeth-Clenched Teamwork: The Grand Council of Fascism is divided between different interest groups and internal rivalries, but its members must work together for the sake of Il Duce and the stability of the country.
- This Means War!: When the Egyptian Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for the deadly bombing of the Florence Cathedral during Pentecost, the Italian government has enough and considers it an act of war by the Sudanese government, accusing them of funding and arming the EIJ.
- Vast Bureaucracy: To manage its colonial possessions more effectively, Italy has created a large bureaucracy intertwined with the party itself. Party bureaucrats work night and day to ensure the colonies are kept in order and that the Metropoli can continue to extract resources and wealth at the expense of the natives.
Duces
Antonio Rastrelli
Role: Il Duce
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Prime Minister and Duce of Fascism Antonio Rastrelli is the current dictator of Fascist Italy. Active in the party since 1948, he is an elder statesman who has guided the nation for two full decades. But Il Duce is past his prime; and with the Grand Council of Fascism having already chosen a successor on his behalf, Rastrelli can only wait for his time to leave this earth.- Dark Lord on Life Support: At the start of MTNO, Rastrelli is only moments away from kicking the bucket, but that hasn't stopped him from deciding to spend the last moments of his life ruling over the country.
- Evil Old Folks: At 85 years old, Rastrelli is Italy's Fascist dictator, having spent most of his life in party politics.
- Nepotism: He appointed his son, Sergio, as President of the Chamber of Fasces to allow him to inherit his political legacy in some capacity.
- Wicked Cultured: He is respected in the PNF for being a man of culture and a respectable statesman, even though he is a dictator and a corrupt one at that.
Teodoro Buontempo
Role: Minister of Agriculture and Forests (Rastrelli Cabinet), Il Duce (Rastrelli Succession)
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
A loyal Fascist and Minister of Agriculture and Forests in Rastrelli's government, Teodoro Buontempo was selected to succeed Rastrelli by the Grand Council of Fascism years before the latter's passing. Seen as an ally to the more conservative members of the Council, the expectations are high for a new era under a new Duce.- Decoy Protagonist: While at first it seems like Buontempo would be the main star of the show, he suddenly dies only a year into his rule and is replaced by the actual important character.
- Plot-Triggering Death: His death catches the Grand Council of Fascism off guard, who must suddenly pick a new successor and bicker amongst themselves as to who will take Buontempo's place, leading to Fasano being appointed at recommendation of the King as a compromise.
- Short-Lived Leadership: He is in power for a little over a year, his health issues leading to his hospitalization and unexpected death.
- Warhawk: When the Florence Bombings happen earlier on in his rule, he mobilizes the country to invade Sudan in retaliation and promotes the war as a crusade for Christianity and western civilization against Muslim barbarity.
Vincenzo Fasano
Role: Minister of National Education (Rastrelli & Buontempo Cabinets), Il Duce (Buontempo Succession)
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Vincenzo "Enzo" Fasano was never made to be Duce, neither did he ever intend to become one. But in such extraordinary circumstances comes unusual decisions. With the PNF nearly tearing itself apart in the aftermath of Buontempo's death, the King has decided that Fasano - a hard-working bureaucrat without any affiliation to the PNF's internal cliques - was what Italy needed. Sadly, the Grand Council agreed with the King's assessment, and Enzo received an offer he could not refuse.- The Coup: Not long after Italy's army pulls out of Sudan, the Grand Council of Fascism will begin a vote of no confidence against Fasano and oust him from power, using him as a scapegoat for Italy's defeat and replacing him with whoever gained the most influence beforehand.
- Hated by All: Fasano isn't particularly liked by anyone. The Grand Council threatens to remove him if he doesn't play by their rules, the military sees him as a symbol of decadence and unfit to be a leader, and the people of Italy see his rule as a sign that Fascism is growing weaker and weaker by the day.
- Kicked Upstairs: Fasano is thrust into the position of Duce because he can be easily controlled by whomever gains the advantage in the Grand Council of Fascism, and Fasano himself did not expected to become Prime Minister and knows it'll be a terrible time for him.
- Puppet King: Unlike previous Duces who enjoyed total power, Fasano is virtually powerless. He has no leverage over the party and finds himself sitting in the crossfire of the war between the different cliques of the Grand Council, forced to rule in their favor.
- Reasonable Authority Figure: Deconstructed. Unlike much of the PNF, Fasano has good credentials as a technocrat and would be otherwise appreciated as a decent leader. However, his willingness to work with other members of the PNF and tendency to make unorthodox decisions for the sake of doing what is best for the Empire will severely weaken Italy and turn him into a puppet of the Grand Council of Fascism, who care little for what he or the nation really want.
- Reluctant Ruler: Fasano is only a careerist who was comfortable sitting in a Ministerial position and earning a good salary for his hard work, and had no intention to become Italy's Prime Minister. When he's thrust into power, Fasano proves to be a weak leader whose only quality lies in his technocratic approach to governance.
- Secretly Dying: Upon finding out about his cancer diagnosis, Fasano will keep it a secret for as long as possible, using what little time he has left to try and correct the wrongs of his predecessors.
- Unwitting Pawn: Fasano is seen as a tool by the Grand Council of Fascism, and the different cliques within it take advantage of his weakness to advance their agenda and punish their rivals one by one.
Grand Council of Fascism
Gianfranco Fini
Role: President of the Senate
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
A protégé of Giorgio Almirante and professed reformer, Gianfranco Fini is a controversial member of the Grand Council. While he claims to be a loyal fascist like any other, and yet he has shown skepticism towards the durability of Fascism and the goal of Mussolini's goals of national glory. Having climbed up to the top of the gerarchi with much effort, he now finds himself in a position to challenge the traditional norms of Fascism and possibly shift it to an entirely new direction.- Allohistorical Allusion: In our timeline, Fini was Giorgio Almirante's personal favorite to lead the neo-fascist MSI because he (Fini) belonged to a new generation of leaders who weren't so emotionally attached to the old forms of Fascism. Here, Fini became Almirante's protégé and slowly built his political career in the PNF under Almirante's image. Fini's willingness to reform the PNF and introduce a more "dynamic" and lasting form of Fascism mirrors Almirante's own long-term goals when recommending Fini to succeed him.
- Internal Reformist: Fini grew skeptical of Fascism after witnessing the PNF's inability to handle Italy's long-term problems and the absurd lack of transparency in the party, and believes some degree of political openness will be necessary to rejuvenate Fascism.
- Pragmatic Villainy: He wants to reform Fascism and provide some degree of openness to ensure the PNF will stay in power for decades to come, at which point Fascism will practically become ingrained in Italy's political psychology and will become difficult to dislodge.
Ignazio La Russa
Role: Secretary of the Party
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Ignazio Benito Maria La Russa was born into Fascism. His father Antonio was already a member of the PNF and a loyal fascist, and La Russa would seek to rise higher than his father in national politics. His decades-long rise led to him becoming the Secretary of the National Fascist Party and a member of the Grand Council of Fascism. A proud fascist and uncompromising conservative, La Russa now looks to save his country from its decadent state and prevent it from being hijacked by the forces that seek to destroy Mussolini's eternal legacy.- Control Freak: He is hell-bent on micromanaging every aspect of Italians' lives, being oddly obsessive and idiosyncratic with his vision for what the ideal Italian should be like.
- Family-Values Villain: La Russa places heavy emphasis on family values and maintaining Italy's social structure, and wants to promote traditional valueswhile persecuting those who are seen as alien to the heteronormative social order.
- Status Quo Is God: La Russa is a conservative who is only willing to make token changes to the Fascist system.
Francesco Storace
Role: Minister of Popular Culture
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Francesco Storace, Minister of Popular Culture. Behind the posters, songs and television programs that praise the Duce's name lies a man with an outgoing personality and a strange appeal that simply draws others to him. Naturally charismatic, Storace went from being a nobody to winning over the trust and friendships of some of the most high-ranking individuals in the Fascist Party. Not only has this made him untouchable in his eyes, but it has put him in a favorable position to influence the most powerful man in Rome.- The Charmer: He's well-liked by other PNF members for his friendly attitudes, allowing him to win over the trust of a number of allies originally belonging to different groups.
- False Friend: Storace is known for his changing allegiances, winning over the trust of whomever he may find to be politically useful only to throw them under the bus when he no longer needs them.
- Internal Reformist: Storace thinks the PNF should prioritize Italy's survival over petty political squabbles, and wants to reform the highly-centralized colonial system while seeking an equal partnership with countries in West Africa and the Middle East, viewing these measures as necessary for the Empire's long-term prosperity.
- Propaganda Machine: As Minister of Popular Culture, Storace is responsible for promoting Fascist ideals to Italian citizens and is the face behind an extensive project of mass propaganda.
Sergio Rastrelli
Role: President of the Chamber of Fasces and Corporations
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
The son of Antonio Rastrelli, Sergio has had an unusually fast rise to power within the PNF's gerarchi. Whereas some party members would say one would need at least a few decades to reach his position, Sergio has only gotten there in less than fifteen years. Still maintaining his father's connections despite his political inexperience, Sergio Rastrelli now looks to take what was meant to be his.- Corrupt Politician: Even moreso than the others, Sergio is a magnet of corruption. His political career has so far taught him that any man has a price, and the fastest way to rise to the top is to have friends in high places.
- Hate Sink: Sergio is despicable for many reasons, such as his nepotism and open corruption. Many in the Grand Council of Fascism see him as a nuisance, but are unable to get rid of him just yet because of his connections. This is without mentioning what Italians even think of him, which is sure to not be very positive.
- Nepotism: Rastrelli was appointed President of the Chamber of Fasces and Corporations thanks to his father's meddling, and didn't have to spend decades trying to climb up the party's gerarchi like the others.
Gaetano Saya
Role: Chief of Staff of the MVSN
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Gaetano Saya is a former military man and commander of the Blackshirts. While men of his caliber are no longer appreciated in such positions of power, Saya knows that he was born to be like Mussolini. Despite having little support, he is confident that, under the correct circumstances, he can take back his country and straighten it out once again.- The Dreaded: Saya commands the Blackshirts, the paramilitary wing of the PNF responsible for doing much of the dirty work on the party's behalf. While the MVSN weren't politically relevant for a long time after Balbo, the Blackshirts have made a political comeback under Saya, creating widespread fear amongst Italians as to what could happen if Saya were to get his way.
- General Ripper: Saya is extremely patriotic and thinks Italy should do everything that is necessary to subjugate the Sudanese and turn it into a colony of the Empire, no matter the kind of human toll such actions would cause.
Edmondo Cirielli
Role: Minister of the Interior
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Brigadier General Edmondo Cirielli is a former Carabinieri who has managed to find a place for himself in politics as Minister of the Interior, responsible for managing Italy's internal security from outside threats. While one would think that he doesn't take an interest in the internal politics of the Grand Council, it couldn't be further from the truth. The General has chosen to bide his time, and keep his loyalties to Il Duce until the time comes where his nation needs a man like him.- My Country, Right or Wrong: Cirielli may not like Fasano or the rest of the Grand Council, but he is willing to remain loyal to Il Duce and the PNF for the sake of the country. But if he feels the country's best interests aren't being followed, he will seek to correct that wrong.
Giovanbattista Fazzolari
Role: Minister of Foreign Affairs
Party: Partito Nazionale Fascistanote
Ideology: Fascism
Giovanbattista Fazzolari is a rising star in the PNF and Minister of Foreign Affairs. While he is a newcomer to the Grand Council and its complicated politics, he has already proved to be a capable politician able to maneuver through different allegiances and secure his base of support. While Fazzolari may be overshadowed by more prominent figures like La Russa and Fini, perhaps a shift in the state of the world will prove his hypothesis on Italy's future to be correct.- Dark Horse Victory: If both the United States and Germany collapse and Italy suddenly regains its importance overnight, Fazzolari will be able to discredit both Reformist and Conservative cliques and take power with the help of his allies, purging both wings of the PNF and focusing on building Italy's position as an European regional power.
Royalty
Victor Emmanuel IV
Role: King of Italy
- Royals Who Actually Do Something: Although he doesn't have much power, Victor Emmanuel IV still takes concern with political matters and tries to step in and use his powers when he feels it's for the best interests of the nation.
