Plot Synopsis

Using letters, diaries, police reports, telephone taps, secret memos and expert interviews, this documentary series explores the rise and tragic fall of Benito Mussolini, who was once lauded as a savior in a financially devastated Italy for his fight against socialism and later destroyed by his bloodlust and disastrous alliance with Adolf Hitler. Mussolini's rise to power from revered activist to fascist dictator was swift. Along the way, the Pope praised him and Winston Churchill deemed him a "Roman Genius." Before the world knew it, he had taken complete and total power over Italy. The question became: What would he do with this power? The answer would shake the world. At the pinnacle of his dictatorial power, the Iron Dictator bent institutions, individuals and even his own family to his will. But an unholy alliance with Adolf Hitler would eventually lead to military failures and a shameful death.