Question

Why were Mussolini and Hitler able to gain power and engage in territorial expansion with such ease prior to 1939

Answer 1

Answer:

They were able to gain power and engage in territorial expansion following the prevalence of chaos, violence, and disillusionment with the governments in power.

When elections were conducted, the newly-minted European Fascist Parties won, took charge of governments of their respective countries, and entrenched the principles of fascism.

Explanation:

The political atmosphere in both countries paved the way for fascism to develop.  Amidst violence and chaos, Fascist Parties, promising better capitalism without socialism, won elections in Europe.  Having achieved political victory, the parties gradually consolidated their holds on power.  They sought territorial expansions in Europe and North Africa to protect their superpower status.