The paper aims to explore the establishment and characteristics of puppet states under Axis rule during World War II, tracing lines of continuity and discontinuity in occupation processes during the era of fascism. Examining political, social, and institutional structures highlights the complex interplay between local elites and occupying forces, addressing key themes such as collaboration, corporatism, constitutionalism, antisemitism, and the mechanisms of violence and repression. Furthermore, the presentation considers the varying degrees of autonomy and control exerted by the Axis powers across different territories, shedding light on the internal conflicts and strategic challenges these regimes faced.

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