The article discusses a significant moment in history when Benito Mussolini, the future dictator of Italy, was injured by a mortar shell during World War I. This incident occurred on February 22, 1917, while he served as a sergeant on the Italian front at Isonzo. Mussolini, who later allied with Germany's Adolf Hitler during World War II, had a challenging early life, and this injury marked a critical survival moment for him as he was just starting his military career.

Mussolini was born in 1883 in Predappio, Italy, to a blacksmith and a teacher. He was well-educated, having taught himself a great deal, and initially worked as a schoolteacher and socialist journalist. The article highlights how, in 1911-12, he led protests against the Italian war in Libya, which resulted in his arrest. His role as editor of the socialist newspaper "Avanti!" positioned him as one of Europe’s most influential socialist journalists, showcasing his significant early political involvement before rising to power.

This historical reflection is not just about Mussolini's near-death experience but also contextualizes his political trajectory, notably his ascent from a sergeant in the military to becoming a prominent dictator. The significance of this day serves as a reminder of how individual events can pivotally alter political landscapes, considering Mussolini's later actions and his collaboration with Hitler, which had profound implications during and after the Second World War.