Why do people follow the extremists?

This next unit is about the rise of totalitarian rulers.  When we study these rulers, we often wonder "why" people would follow such extremists... what are some reasons you have seen in your experience, whether personal or learned...

What do you think?

We have spent the last 6 weeks studying the first 19 years of the 20th century... focusing around World War One.  Of everything we studied this unit, what do you think had the largest impact or interest level for you.  Please give a reason for this.

Glory of War

The First World War ended the notion that war is glorious.  There are many reasons why this statement can be considered true... or you could say that there never was glory in war and World War One reinforced this.  Please give your opinion on this plus one or two examples to support your thoughts.