---
title: Mussolini Draws the Sword of Islam
author: Unknown Photographer
source: https://www.worldhistory.org/image/20840/mussolini-draws-the-sword-of-islam/
format: machine-readable-alternate
updated: 2025-09-04
---
# Mussolini Draws the Sword of Islam
_Authored by Unknown Photographer_
## Image File
[](https://www.worldhistory.org/uploads/images/20840.png)
## Image Caption
Photo of [Benito Mussolini](https://www.worldhistory.org/Benito_Mussolini/) (1883-1945) at the gates of Tripoli, Libya, raising the 'sword of [Islam](https://www.worldhistory.org/islam/)' and proclaiming himself 'protector of Islam'. The sword of Islam was a ceremonial propaganda object given to Mussolini to gain the favor of the Muslim population. In propaganda photos, the groom calming the horse here represented has been removed. 20 March 1937.
#### Editorial Review
This human-authored image has been reviewed by our editorial team before publication to ensure accuracy, reliability and adherence to academic standards in accordance with our [editorial policy](https://www.worldhistory.org/static/editorial-policy/).
## Cite This Work
### APA
Photographer, U. (2025, August 27). Mussolini Draws the Sword of Islam. *World History Encyclopedia*.
### Chicago
Photographer, Unknown. "Mussolini Draws the Sword of Islam." *World History Encyclopedia*, August 27, 2025. .
### MLA
Photographer, Unknown. "Mussolini Draws the Sword of Islam." *World History Encyclopedia*, 27 Aug 2025, .
## License & Copyright
Original image by **Unknown Photographer**. Submitted by [Fabio Sappino](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/fabiosappino/ "User Page: Fabio Sappino"), published on 27 August 2025. The copyright holder has published this content under the following license: [Public Domain](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_domain). This item is in the public domain, and can be used, copied, and modified without any restrictions. Please note that content linked from this page may have different licensing terms.