UPPER LAKE, Calif. – The next Lake County Historical Roundtable will explore the life of Benito Mussolini.

The presentation will be at the Tallman Hotel in historic downtown Upper Lake on Monday, Dec. 5, starting at 6:15 p.m.

Mussolini was an Italian politician, journalist, and leader of the National Fascist Party, ruling Italy as prime minister from 1922 to 1943.

He ruled constitutionally until 1925, when he dropped all pretense of democracy and set up a legal dictatorship.

Known as Il Duce (The Leader), Mussolini was the founder of Italian Fascism, a major ally of Adolf Hitler and attempted to reconquer the territory of the former Roman Empire.

In late April 1945, with total defeat looming, Mussolini attempted to escape but was captured and summarily executed near Lake Como by Italian Communists. His body was then taken to Milan, where it was hung upside down at a service station for public viewing and to provide confirmation of his demise.

Or so that is what the history books tell us. But what is the real story? Local author and historian Gene Paleno will look into the life and times of an amazing and tragic historical figure, one who once had the love and admiration of his country, but later became the most hated man in Italy.

The Lake County Historical Roundtable is an informal group of local history buffs that meet monthly to hear presentations on historical topics. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

The Blue Wing Saloon (next door) is offering a 10-percent discount all Italian food for roundtable attendees.

Contact Phil Smoley at 707-264-4905 or Zane Jensen at 707-349-6390 for more information.