Arditi in the context of Blackshirts

Proto-fascism represents the direct predecessor ideologies and cultural movements that influenced and formed the basis of fascism. The term protofascism is also used in a slightly more general sense to refer to any political movement whose activities make the emergence of fascism more likely.

Proto-fascist movements that preceded fascism featured some of the common characteristics of fascist ideology, such as the scapegoating of ethnic or religious minorities, the glorification of violence, and the promotion of the Führerprinzip, the belief that the party and the state should have a single leader with absolute power, but usually did not exhibit some characteristics of fascism, for example, were less radical or lacked totalitarian ambitions.

Shock troops, assault troops, or storm troops are special formations created to lead military attacks. They are often better trained and equipped than other military units and are expected to take heavier casualties even in successful operations.

"Shock troop" is a loose translation of the German word Stoßtrupp (literally "thrust squad" or "push squad"). Assault troopers are typically organized for mobility with the intention that they will penetrate enemy defenses and attack into the enemy's vulnerable rear areas. Any specialized, elite unit formed to fight an engagement via overwhelming assault (usually) would be considered shock troops, as opposed to "special forces" or commando-style units (intended mostly for covert operations). However, both types of units could fight behind enemy lines, by surprise if required.
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