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The original was posted on /r/exmormon by /u/Sunset-Siren on 2025-05-06 20:54:38+00:00.

The root of the word Fascism is “Fascis” meaning “bundle” in Latin. It was a weapon that the Romans used as a symbol of penal authority: a bundle of sticks tied together, with an ax in the middle when used in battle.

Mussolini used this as the symbol for a united (ie subjugated) Italy, because you can break one stick easily, but not a bundle of sticks tied together.

This became the foundational symbol for the ultranationalist movement that allied with Hitler and killed tens of thousands of native Italians who didn’t fall in line with the extremism.

I was also taught this metaphor in Sunday school every year or more. It was a metaphor for the church, the family, the house of Israel, whatever. I heard it hundreds of times in church lessons, ward talks, FHE, devotionals, firesides, etc.

Had no idea that I was literally being taught the foundations of fascism as a child.