The topic for March will be the making of the modern Italian State. We will begin our discussion with an overview of the consolidation and unification of various states of the Italian Peninsula and its outlying isles into a single state (the Kingdom of Italy), in 1861, followed 10 years later by the incorporation of Venetia and the former Papal States, including Rome.

We will also discuss Italy in the 20th century, examining how the country transitioned from fighting on the side of the Allies in World War I to fighting against the Allies under the rule of Benito Mussolini in World War II.  This will be followed by a review of the various changes in political parties and systems in Italy during the second half of the 20th century, including the shift from a constitutional monarchy to a republic. Finally, we will close with a look at Italy today.

Resources:

How was Italy Unified

https://lovelivingathome.helpfulvillage.com/documents/830/download

The March on Rome 1922

https://lovelivingathome.helpfulvillage.com/documents/829/download

History Discussion Group March 2024 Readings

https://lovelivingathome.helpfulvillage.com/documents/828/download

Economic Stagnation and Protests

https://www.britannica.com/place/Italy/Economic-stagnation-and-labour-militancy-in-the-1960s-and-70s

Organized Crime in the 80s and 90s

https://www.britannica.com/place/Italy/The-fight-against-organized-crime

How the Mafia's Murder of an Italian Prosecutor Became a Turning Point in Italy's Fight Against the Mob

https://www.newsweek.com/italy-mafia-mob-sicily-murder-prosecutor-giovanni-falcone-613971