Neoclassicism as the Architecture of Facism

Fascist regimes have many methods of controlling their populations. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines fascism as, “a populist political philosophy, movement, or regime (such as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual, that is associated with a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, and that is characterized by severe economic and social regimentation and by forcible suppression of opposition”. These dictators use the promise of a return to glory, often after economic strife or loss, to gain support from a variety of different groups who are vulnerable. There are differences between each regime’s methods, but a similar theme through them all is a return to ancient Roman prosperity. This often manifests through new development, specifically in a neoclassical style.

Neoclassicism is the architecture of choice in these rebuilding eras as it evokes a feeling of unity and strength among citizens. The fame of these ancient Roman societies and the stories of their prosperity and ways of life is deeply appealing to people who have lost almost everything. By making people feel safer and providing the illusion that they are moving in the right direction, fascist government leaders are able to push forward an agenda that will reduce individuality and increase conformity. In doing so, the government ensures that the push for complete power will not be met with substantial pushback that could put the regime at risk. The countries that were subject to these fascist regimes don’t have much in common today, but they all carry the remnants of the time through their prevalent neoclassical architectural works.