June 2: Italy Celebrates Republic Day
Prayer Idea
Pray for the people and government of Italy.
History Note
During the 19th century, several separate political entities on the Italian peninsula joined together to create the Kingdom of Italy. Victor Emmanuel II became the first King of Italy in 1861. His son Umberto I ruled from 1878 to 1900. Umberto’s son Victor Emmanuel III ruled from 1900 to 1946, though Benito Mussolini effectively took control of running the country as prime minister in the 1920s.
Two entities on the Italian peninsula that did not unite with Italy are San Marino and Vatican City. The traditional date for the founding of San Marino in 301 AD, and it claims to be the world’s oldest existing republic. Vatican City (also known as the Holy See) functions as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and is the home of the current Pope. In previous centuries, the Pope exercised authority over a large portion of what is now central Italy.
In June 1946, the people of Italy voted to end the monarchy and become a republic. The country celebrates Festa della Repubblica (Festival of the Republic) each year on June 2. Ceremonies in Rome include placing a laurel wreath at the Italian Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a military parade. Other cities throughout the country have ceremonies as well.
This is the 1946 ballot used for Italians to choose whether their country would be a republic or a monarchy. Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons.
Learn More
This video shows footage from the 2018 observance of Italy's Republic Day.
Find other resources at Homeschool History.
