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How did Mussolini’s alliance with Adolf Hitler influence Italy’s antisemitic laws of 1938?

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Benito Mussolini in military uniform stands on a balcony, addressing a large crowd gathered below. — fascism Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini addressing a rally.

Benito Mussolini’s alliance with Adolf Hitler was a primary driver behind Italy’s adoption of antisemitic laws in 1938. As Italy became increasingly isolated diplomatically following its invasion of Ethiopia, Mussolini moved into Hitler’s orbit, eventually forming the Rome-Berlin Axis and later the Pact of Steel.12

Following the German example, the Fascist regime implemented these sweeping, Nazi-like antisemitic measures after a prolonged racist campaign in the Italian press and media. These laws, which were signed by the king, fundamentally altered the status of Jews in Italy by:34

Excluding them from government positions and the military.34
Banning them from attending or teaching in schools.34
Restricting their economic activities and forbidding marriage with "Aryans."34
Requiring mandatory registration with authorities.34

This alignment with Nazi ideology was deeply resented and feared by many Italians, including members of the Fascist Party itself. Ultimately, these discriminatory policies marginalized Italy's Jewish population and paved the way for the deportation of approximately 20 percent of Italian Jews to German death camps during World War II.341