How did postwar neofascist movements differ from the major fascist parties of the interwar period?

Postwar neofascist movements shared core ideological tenets with interwar fascist parties, such as militant nationalism, authoritarianism, and opposition to left-wing ideologies. However, they adapted significantly to the changed political and social landscape of the late 20th century.1

Key differences include:

• Targeted Scapegoating: While interwar fascists blamed Jews, liberals, and Bolsheviks for national crises, neofascists shifted their focus toward non-European immigrants.1
• Rejection of Territorial Conquest: Following decolonization, neofascists largely abandoned the pursuit of Lebensraum (territorial expansion) in favor of conflicts over "urban space" and domestic social issues.1
• Mainstream Presentation: To appeal to societies that had embraced democratic norms, many neofascist groups adopted "designer" aesthetics, abandoning paramilitary uniforms and Roman salutes. Some even incorporated terms like "democratic" or "liberal" into their party names to appear mainstream.1
• Electoral Shifts: With increased urbanization, neofascists moved away from the rural "blood and soil" romanticism that characterized earlier movements.1

While some neofascist groups maintained brutal, militaristic rhetoric, others sought to distance themselves from the fascist label entirely, despite their continued pursuit of power.1