[.ca] A History of Fascism: A History (ISBN 0099441918)

Fascism in a nutshell:
This is a fairly decent study of various models of fascism - one of the most overused, least understood terms - in the 20th century. Since fascism always seems to devolve on the exploits of a self-appointed, delusional superman acting on behalf of a superstate, the first portion of his book is devoted to understanding the likes of Hitler and Mussolini as its classic standard bearers. In order to be ultimately successful in their quest to destroy anyone who would stand in their way, fascist leaders invariably take their followers through a labyrinth of violence and death. Failure only comes when their opponents challenge their bullying ways and they start losing. What is so intriguing is what happens after the main leadership vanishes in disgrace. The movement usually stays around to feed off their memory to form new messiah types to represent the needs of the extreme right in society. The LaPenns and the Neo-Nazis of this world promise simplistic solutions to complex problems through the practice of discrimination and hate. A useful read.