Q. Why does the term "Japanese fascism" seem controversial?
The term Japanese fascism seems so controversial due to the fact some historians say that the term fascism itself is used to loosely. Others say that fascism has no exact theoretical definition and is controversial itself. However as of lately many agree that what occurred in Japan during Tojo's rule could be described as fascist. The term "japanese fascism" may still be likely to be disputed.
Q. Did Fascism prove to be effective?
It's hard to say exactly if it proved to be effective. Really Fascism is a form of government and it was the leaders themselves who solved or didn't solve the countries problems. Although, one aspect of fascism is nationalism and did have some effect on people such as having pride in their nations. Also Fascism relies on military and with a strong military a country is more powerful. Again some may argue that it was the leaders that were effective and not just fascism itself, so it depends on opinion to say if fascism was effective or not.
Q. Has fascism occurred in other countries besides the axis powers countries?
Austria, historians use the term "Austro-fascism" to describe the type of government that Austria had between the years 1933 to 1938. Engelbert Dollfuss served as chancellor of Austria in 1932 then dictator until his assassination by Nazi agents in 1934. Again considering the term Fascism in controversial and has many different interpretations its hard to say. However, the Austrian government at the time could be described as fascist.
Q. Are there still fascist countries today, or AT LEAST countries that use fascist ideas?
In a sense you could say there are counties that still use fascist ideas. There are many aspects of Fascism such as militarism and there are still countries even today building there military and enhancing their capabilities. There are other countries still continuing to invade other countries to expand their empire like Russia for example who tried to invade Ukraine.
Q. What caused the leaders to become fascist?
In italy and Germany following WW1 both countries were hit with a depression. The leaders goals were to be bring their countries out of the economic depression and restore old power. In all the Axis powers fascist countries they all also wished to expand their countries territory.