#4 Moral Influence
That which causes the people to be in harmony with their leaders, so that they will accompany them in life and unto death without fear of mortal peril.
The Council is still deciding between Hitler and Mussolini.
Italy’s population is below forty million. Not enough to engage in full-scale war. The German population of sixty-two million, on the other hand, is sufficient.
Brother, we shall see whose leader will be victorious.
Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli
Chapter 31
21 January 1926
Rome, Italy
“Prime Minister, it’s good to see you,” Francesco Pacelli greeted Benito Mussolini, ushering him into his office with a warm, welcoming smile.
Mussolini strode across the polished floor to firmly grasp Francesco’s outstretched hand. “Thank you. I came as soon as I received your summons, counselor.”
“I’ve been speaking with my directors, and they have informed me we have a small issue.”
Mussolini, sensing the gravity of the situation, took a seat. The prime minister’s eyes locked onto Francesco’s, ready to grapple with the impending complication.
“It appears our beloved Italy lacks the numerical strength to pose a significant threat on the global stage.”
“What are you implying, counselor?”
“The population of Italy currently hovers around forty million. To expand our influence, Italy will need to seize control of neighboring territories, which will in turn require a formidable military. To wage a significant war, Italy would need a population of at least sixty million to be powerful enough to annex the neighboring lands.”
“And how do you suggest we increase our numbers?” Mussolini asked, leaning forward in anticipation of the counselor’s great wisdom.
“You, Prime Minister, have the power to enact natalist policies designed to stimulate a population boom. You must increase the birthrate in Italy.”
Mussolini’s attention was riveted on Francesco as he meticulously outlined the decree, a directive handed down from the Council that would shape Italy’s future. Presently, Mussolini’s popularity among the masses was soaring, thanks to his numerous public policies that had significantly improved civilian life. The once chaotic and unreliable railway system was now a model of punctuality, with trains arriving and departing with clockwork precision. This newfound order and consistency in transportation had fast become a vital aspect of the citizens’ daily lives, helping win over the hearts of the Italian people. Mussolini had been hailed as a hero, his title “Il Duce” reverberating across the length and breadth of the peninsula. The populace was ready to follow their prime minister’s lead, no matter the ask.
“You are to issue a decree promoting family growth. Tax exemptions will be granted to large families, while bachelors will face tax penalties,” Francesco instructed.
Selling such a policy to the House of Commons would be a monumental task for Mussolini. Yet, to ascend to the status of a global superpower, it was crucial for Italy to increase its population to a staggering sixty million people. A 50 percent population increase was a lofty goal, but Mussolini was prepared to impose this ambitious target on his people.
“I will mobilize my team to implement this immediately, counselor,” Mussolini affirmed, his voice resolute. “Consider it done.”
Chapter 32
16 February 1929
The Art of War
#5 The Moral Law causes the people to
be in complete accord with their ruler,
so that they follow him regardless of their lives,
undismayed by any danger.
The Black Nobility successfully orchestrated and executed the Lateran Treaty between the Kingdom of Italy and Vatican City.
Francesco, my brilliant brother, acted as Lead Council between the king and the pope, securing Vatican City’s independence. Mussolini, who signed on behalf of the king, played an essential role in compensating the Vatican for its loss of the Papal States.
In a grand gesture of recognition, Mussolini commemorated the successful negotiations by commissioning the Via della Conciliazione, a symbolic stre’et linking the Vatican City to the heart of Rome. This subtle act was a silent nod to everything my brother has done for the prime minister.
Brother, I commend you on this triumphant treaty. You continue to be a great role model that inspires me.
Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli
8 February 1930
The Art of War
#16 While heading the profit of my counsel,
avail yourself also of any helpful
Circumstances over and beyond the ordinary rules.
Pope Pius XI has appointed me Vatican Cardinal Secretary of State. I am now responsible for foreign policy and state relations throughout the world.
