An Italian National Institute for Cultural Relations Document Signed by Mussolini

Photo and document with signature of the “Duce” Benito Mussolini; Measuring 18x13cm / 23.5x36.5cm; A photo from the National Institute for Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries, showing the Duce, Benito Mussolini, inspecting the first legion of the CCNN destined for the Russian front. This dates the picture to the early 1940s. It shows signs of aging on the left, but is in overall good condition. Foonote: Originally, the CCNN was the paramilitary wing of the National Fascist Party in Italy. CCNN stands for Camicie Nere, “Blackshirts”. Divisions made up from their members fought as volunteers in the Spanish Civil War from 1936 to 1939. They also saw action during the Second World War and fought in every theater that Italy was involved in.

An interesting document from the Ministry of War from late 1932 or 1933, signed by Mussolini. A date is missing, but the “tenth anniversary of fascism”, the March on Rome (late October 1922), is mentioned, in combination with another date, December 8, 1932. The document shows considerable signs of aging, yet the text is still clearly readable, and the signature is unobstructed. The document is sent by Mussolini to the King of Italy. It is signed by “the minister”, the signature is in black ink. The object is a former infantry lieutenant on leave, Carmelo Siracusa, and the revocation of the removal from his position. Siracusa had been removed by Royal decree on December 8, 1932. Apparently after accepting a challenge to a duel, he refused to fight his opponent due to medical reasons and was therefore suspended. Mussolini informs the king that Siracusa’s case has been reviewed and, because of mitigating circumstances, Mussolini asks for Siracusa to be reinstated in light of the “tenth anniversary of fascism”.