In the mid-1800s, the Austrian Empire controlled large parts of northern Italy. The Papal States controlled much of the center, with the pope at its head. The south of the peninsula was held by Naples, with its King Victor Emmanuel II At the same time, anti-imperialism and nationalism were on the rise across Europe. Italians dreamed anew of a united Italy. Patriots dreamed of a country free of foreign emperors and united by a common language and religion. The monarchs of Naples were particular fans of this idea, especially if it involved them becoming rulers of the whole peninsula.
Around this time, the opera composer Giuseppe Verdi was increasingly popular. One of his operas’ choruses became an unofficial anthem for the burgeoning revolution.
That wasn’t his only contribution to the unification of his homeland. Italian patriots became graffiti-ing “VIVA VERDI.” Sure, they admired the nationalist composer. But it also formed a handy acronym: Vittorio Emanuele Re D'Italia – King Victor Emmanuel, King of Italy.
Nenhum comentário:
Postar um comentário