What allows authoritarian and totalitarian governments to come to power?

Although not an ideal government, during the pre-World War II period, authoritarian and totalitarian governments came to power. What exactly allows this type of regime to take power? When individual countries are struggling with economy, famine, or other things, they blame the government. When the people feel as if their government is failing, they find ways to elect a new government either through revolution, such as the Russian Revolution, or other ways. Many of the leaders of these totalitarian and authoritarian governments come to power by promising it’s people a better life. For example, Benito Mussolini of Italy promised to revise the economy. Hitler of Germany promised to create new jobs. When new leaders come to power, they begin their reign by brainwashing/convincing the people that they are doing things to better the country. For example, when Hitler came to reign, his first acts were to reoccupied the Rhineland and created a propaganda. During the pre-World War II period, many countries converted to forms of authoritarian government as they felt strong leaders would make a better life for them.