On April 28, 1945, Benito Mussolini, the fascist dictator of Italy, was executed by Italian partisans. Mussolini had been captured while attempting to flee to Switzerland as Allied forces closed in on Italy during World War II. His death, along with that of his mistress Clara Petacci, marked the end of fascist rule in Italy. Mussolinis body was displayed in Milan, where it was subjected to public humiliation, reflecting the deep anger toward his regime. His execution occurred just days before the end of the war in Europe.