BOOK BRIEF

The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe

David I. Kertzer
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The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

Book Brief

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David I. Kertzer

The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

592

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Italy • 1920s-1930s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe by David I. Kertzer explores the complex relationship between Pope Pius XI and Benito Mussolini. The text reveals how their interactions significantly influenced the Vatican and Italy's political landscape during the rise of fascism in Europe, based on extensive archival research.

Informative

Dark

Mysterious

Unnerving

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,017 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David I. Kertzer’s The Pope and Mussolini offers a compelling narrative on the alliance between Pius XI and Fascism. Praised for its thorough research and vivid storytelling, it reveals critical historical dynamics. However, some critique the dense detail that may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it's a significant contribution to understanding Church-state relations in the era.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe?

Readers interested in European history, church-state relations, or political intrigue will enjoy The Pope and Mussolini. Fans of The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer and The Vatican and Mussolini's Italy by Lucia Ceci will find this book compelling for its detailed narrative and historical insight.

4.3

4,017 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

592

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Italy • 1920s-1930s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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