Difference between revisions of "Italy" - New World Encyclopedia

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{{Infobox Country
{{Infobox_Country
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|native_name       = {{native name|it|Repubblica Italiana|icon=}}
|native_name = ''Repubblica Italiana''
 
 
|conventional_long_name = Italian Republic
 
|conventional_long_name = Italian Republic
|common_name = Italy  
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|common_name       = Italy
|image_coat = Italian coa.png
+
|nickname(s)        = The Boot; The Belpaese
|symbol_type=Coat of arms
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|image_flag        = Flag of Italy.svg
|image_map = Europe location ITA.png
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|image_coat         = Italy-Emblem.svg
|national_motto =  
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|symbol_type       = Emblem
|national_anthem = ''[[Il Canto degli Italiani]]'' (also known as "Fratelli d'Italia")
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|image_map         = Europe location ITA.png
|official_languages = [[Italian language|Italian]]<sup>1</sup>
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|map_caption        =
 +
|national_motto     =
 +
|national_anthem = {{lang|it|''[[Il Canto degli Italiani]]''}}{{Spaces|2}}<br /><small>''The Song of the Italians''</small>
 +
|official_languages = [[Italian language|Italian]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ethnologue.com/show_country.asp?name=IT |title=Languages of Italy |publisher=Ethnologue |date= |accessdate=December 14, 2011}}</ref>
 +
|capital            = [[Rome]]
 
|latd=41 |latm=54 |latNS=N |longd=12 |longm=29 |longEW=E
 
|latd=41 |latm=54 |latNS=N |longd=12 |longm=29 |longEW=E
|capital = [[Rome, Italy|Rome]]
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|largest_city      = capital
|largest_city  = [[Rome, Italy|Rome]]  
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|largest_metropolitan area      = [[Milan]] and [[Naples]]
|government_type =[[Republic]]
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|demonym            = [[Italian people|Italian]]
|leader_title1 = [[List of Presidents of the Italian Republic|President]]
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|government_type   = [[Unitary state|Unitary]] [[parliamentary republic]]
|leader_title2 = [[List of Prime Ministers of Italy|Prime Minister]]
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|leader_title1     = [[President of Italy|President]]
|leader_name1 =[[Giorgio Napolitano]]
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|leader_name1      = [[Giorgio Napolitano]]
|leader_name2 = [[Romano Prodi]]
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|leader_title2     = [[Prime Minister of Italy|Prime Minister]]
|accessionEUdate = March 25, 1957; Founding Member
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|leader_name2      = [[Mario Monti]]
|area_rank = 71st
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|legislature        = [[Parliament of Italy|Parliament]]
|area_magnitude = 1 E11
+
|upper_house        = [[Italian Senate|Senate of the Republic]]
|area=301,318
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|lower_house        = [[Italian Chamber of Deputies|Chamber of Deputies]]
|areami²= 116,346.5 <!-- Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]] —>
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|accessionEUdate   = 25 March 1957 (founding member)
|percent_water = 2.4
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|EUseats            = 78
|population_estimate = 58,751,711 <!--http://http://www.istat.it/salastampa/comunicati/in_calendario/bildem/20060710_02/—>
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|area_rank         = 71st
|population_estimate_rank = 22nd
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|area_magnitude     = 1 E11
|population_estimate_year = 2006
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|area_km2          = 301,338
|population_census = 57,110,144
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|area_sq_mi        = 116,346 <!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]—>
|population_census_year = October 2001
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|percent_water     = 2.4
|population_density =192.8
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|population_estimate     = 60,681,514 <ref name="Istat" >{{cite web|language=Italian|url=http://demo.istat.it/bilmens2011gen/index.html|title=Monthly demographic balance: January 2011|publisher=[[Istat]]|date=10 September 2011|accessdate=September 10, 2011}}</ref>
|population_densitymi² = 499.4<!-- Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]] —>
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|population_estimate_rank = 23rd
|population_density_rank = 54th
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|population_estimate_year = April 2011
|GDP_PPP = $1.668 trillion
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|population_census       = 56,995,744
|GDP_PPP_rank =7th
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|population_census_year   = 2001
|GDP_PPP_year= 2005
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|population_density_km2  = 201.2
|GDP_PPP_per_capita =$28,760
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|population_density_rank  = 61st
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 21st
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|population_density_sq_mi = 521.2<!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]—>
|sovereignty_type = Formation
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|GDP_PPP           = $1.828 trillion<ref name=autogenerated1 >{{cite web|url=http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2011/02/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2009&ey=2016&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&c=136&s=NGDPD%2CNGDPDPC%2CPPPGDP%2CPPPPC%2CLP&grp=0&a=&pr1.x=27&pr1.y=19|title=Italy|publisher=International Monetary Fund|accessdate=December 14, 2011}}</ref>
|established_event1 = [[Italian Unification|Unification]]
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|GDP_PPP_rank       = 10th
|established_event2 = [[Birth of the Italian Republic|Republic]]
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|GDP_PPP_year       = 2011
|established_date1 = 17 March 1861
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita = $30,165<ref name=autogenerated1 />
|established_date2 = 2 June 1946  
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 30th
|HDI = 0.934
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|GDP_nominal        = $2.245 trillion<ref name=autogenerated1 />
|HDI_rank = 18th
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|GDP_nominal_rank  = 8th
|HDI_year =2003
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|GDP_nominal_year  = 2011
|HDI_category = <span style="color:#090">high</span>
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|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $37,046<ref name=autogenerated1 />
|currency = [[Euro]] (€)<sup>2</sup>
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|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 24th
|currency_code = EUR
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|sovereignty_type   = [[History of Italy|Formation]]
|country_code =  
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|established_event1 = [[Italian unification|Unification]]
|time_zone = [[Central European Time|CET]]
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|established_date1  = 17 March 1861
|utc_offset = +1
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|established_event2 = [[Italian constitutional referendum, 1946|Republic]]
|time_zone_DST = [[Central European Summer Time|CEST]]
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|established_date2 = 2 June 1946
|utc_offset_DST = +2
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|HDI               = {{increase}} 0.874<ref name="HDI">{{cite web|url=http://hdr.undp.org/en/media/HDR_2011_EN_Table1.pdf|title=Human Development Report 2011|year=2011|publisher=United Nations|accessdate=December 14, 2011}}</ref>
|cctld = [[.it]] <ref> the [[.eu]] domain il also used, as it is shared with other [[European Union]] member states.</ref>
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|HDI_rank           = 24th
|calling_code = 39
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|HDI_year           = 2011
|footnotes =<sup>1</sup> [[French language|French]] is co-official in the [[Aosta Valley]]; [[German language|German]] is co-official in [[Trentino-South Tyrol]].<br/>
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|HDI_category       = <span style="color:#090;">very&nbsp;high</span>
<sup>2</sup> Prior to 2002: [[Italian lira|Italian Lira]].
+
|currency           = [[Euro]] ([[Euro sign|]]){{Smallsup|2}}
 +
|currency_code     = EUR
 +
|country_code       =
 +
|time_zone         = [[Central European Time|CET]]
 +
|utc_offset         = +1
 +
|time_zone_DST     = [[Central European Summer Time|CEST]]
 +
|utc_offset_DST     = +2
 +
|drives_on          = Right
 +
|cctld             = [[.it]]{{Smallsup|3}}
 +
|calling_code      = [[Telephone numbers in Italy|39]]{{Smallsup|4}}
 +
|Gini              = 32<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2172.html|title=Distribution of family income – Gini index|publisher=CIA – The World Factbook|accessdate=December 14, 2011}}</ref>
 +
|Gini_year          = 2006
 +
|footnote1 = <span style="font-size:120%">French is co-official in the [[Aosta Valley]]; [[Slovene language|Slovene]] is co-official in the [[province of Trieste]] and the [[province of Gorizia]]; German and [[Ladin]] are co-official in the province of [[South Tyrol]].<span>
 +
|footnote2 = <span style="font-size:120%">Before 2002, the [[Italian lira|Italian Lira]]. The euro is accepted in [[Campione d'Italia]], but the official currency there is the [[Swiss Franc]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.comune.campione-d-italia.co.it/ |title=Comune di Campione d'Italia |publisher=Comune.campione-d-italia.co.it |date=14 July 2010 |accessdate=December 14, 2011}}</ref></span>
 +
|footnote3 = <span style="font-size:120%">The [[.eu]] domain is also used, as it is shared with other [[European Union]] member states.</span>
 +
|footnote4 = <span style="font-size:120%">To call [[Campione d'Italia]], it is necessary to use the Swiss code +41.</span>
 
}}
 
}}
'''Italy''', officially the '''Italian Republic''', is a [[Southern Europe]]an country with a population of almost 59 million. It comprises the [[Po River]] valley, the [[Italian Peninsula]] and the two largest islands in the [[Mediterranean Sea]], [[Sicily]] and [[Sardinia]]. Called "il Belpaese" (beautiful country) by its inhabitants due to the variety of its [[landscape]]s and for having the world's largest artistic patrimony; Italy is home to the greatest number of [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Sites]] of any nation in the world.  
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'''Italy''' ''(Italia)'', officially the '''Italian Republic''', is a [[Southern Europe]]an country with a population of approximately 60 million. It comprises the [[Po River]] valley, the [[Italian Peninsula]] and the two largest islands in the [[Mediterranean Sea]], [[Sicily]] and [[Sardinia]]. Called "il Belpaese" (beautiful country) by its inhabitants due to the variety of its [[landscape]]s and for having the world's largest artistic patrimony; Italy is home to the greatest number of [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Sites]] of any nation in the world.  
  
 
The Italian Republic shares its northern [[Alps|alpine]] boundary with [[France]], [[Switzerland]], [[Austria]] and [[Slovenia]]. The country also shares a sea border with [[Croatia]], Slovenia and France. The independent countries of [[San Marino]] and the [[Vatican City]] are [[enclave]]s within Italian territory. Also belonging to the republic is the commune of [[Campione d'Italia]], an enclave in the territory of the [[Italian Switzerland]]. The Republic includes only the 92 percent of Italian physical region, delimited conventionally by the alpine watershed; besides the above-mentioned enclaves, the following territories do not belong to the country: the [[Monaco|Principality of Monaco]], [[Nice]] with [[Briga]] and [[Tenda]], some strips of the Alps near the French border ([[Monginevro]], [[Moncenisio]] and [[Piccolo San Bernardo]]), the Italian Switzerland ([[Ticino|Canton Ticino]] and some valleys of [[Grigioni]]), the peninsula of [[Istria]] and a piece of [[Venezia Giulia]], the island of [[Corsica]] and the [[archipelago]] of [[Malta]].
 
The Italian Republic shares its northern [[Alps|alpine]] boundary with [[France]], [[Switzerland]], [[Austria]] and [[Slovenia]]. The country also shares a sea border with [[Croatia]], Slovenia and France. The independent countries of [[San Marino]] and the [[Vatican City]] are [[enclave]]s within Italian territory. Also belonging to the republic is the commune of [[Campione d'Italia]], an enclave in the territory of the [[Italian Switzerland]]. The Republic includes only the 92 percent of Italian physical region, delimited conventionally by the alpine watershed; besides the above-mentioned enclaves, the following territories do not belong to the country: the [[Monaco|Principality of Monaco]], [[Nice]] with [[Briga]] and [[Tenda]], some strips of the Alps near the French border ([[Monginevro]], [[Moncenisio]] and [[Piccolo San Bernardo]]), the Italian Switzerland ([[Ticino|Canton Ticino]] and some valleys of [[Grigioni]]), the peninsula of [[Istria]] and a piece of [[Venezia Giulia]], the island of [[Corsica]] and the [[archipelago]] of [[Malta]].
  
Today, Italy is a highly [[developed country]] with the 7th highest [[Gross domestic product|GDP]] in 2006, a member of the [[Group of Eight|G8]] and a founding member of what is now the [[European Union]], having signed the [[Treaty of Rome]] in 1957.
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Today, Italy is a highly [[developed country]], a member of the [[Group of Eight|G8]] and a founding member of what is now the [[European Union]], having signed the [[Treaty of Rome]] in 1957.
 
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{{toc}}
 
Italy was home to many well-known and influential [[Europe]]an [[civilization]]s, including the [[Etruscans]], [[Ancient Greece|Greeks]] and the [[Ancient Rome|Romans]]. For more than 3,000 years Italy experienced migrations and invasions from [[Germanic peoples|Germanic]], [[Celt|Celtic]], [[Frankish]], [[Lombards|Lombard]], [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantine Greek]], [[Saracen]], [[Normans|Norman]], and [[Angevin]] peoples, and was divided into many independent states until 1861 when it became a [[nation-state]].
 
Italy was home to many well-known and influential [[Europe]]an [[civilization]]s, including the [[Etruscans]], [[Ancient Greece|Greeks]] and the [[Ancient Rome|Romans]]. For more than 3,000 years Italy experienced migrations and invasions from [[Germanic peoples|Germanic]], [[Celt|Celtic]], [[Frankish]], [[Lombards|Lombard]], [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantine Greek]], [[Saracen]], [[Normans|Norman]], and [[Angevin]] peoples, and was divided into many independent states until 1861 when it became a [[nation-state]].
  
 
Both the internal and external facets of Western Civilization were born on the Italian peninsula, whether one looks at the history of the [[Christianity|Christian faith]], [[philosophy]], [[art]], [[science]] or social customs and culture.
 
Both the internal and external facets of Western Civilization were born on the Italian peninsula, whether one looks at the history of the [[Christianity|Christian faith]], [[philosophy]], [[art]], [[science]] or social customs and culture.
 
  
 
== Geography ==
 
== Geography ==
Line 85: Line 103:
  
 
=== Climate ===
 
=== Climate ===
 
 
The Italian climate is unique in each region. The north of Italy (Turin, Milan, and Bologna) has a true continental climate, while below Florence it becomes more and more Mediterranean.
 
The Italian climate is unique in each region. The north of Italy (Turin, Milan, and Bologna) has a true continental climate, while below Florence it becomes more and more Mediterranean.
 
[[Image:Mont Blanc Stream, Italy..jpg|thumb|300px|right|Stream on Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Italy and Europe.]]
 
[[Image:Mont Blanc Stream, Italy..jpg|thumb|300px|right|Stream on Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Italy and Europe.]]
Line 97: Line 114:
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
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The word Italy derives from the [[Homeric Greek|Homer]]ic ([[Aeolic Greek|Aeolic]]) word ιταλός, which means ''[[Cattle|bull]].'' Excavations throughout Italy have found proof of people in Italy dating back to the [[Paleolithic]] period (the "Old Stone Age") some 200,000 years ago. The first Greek settlers, who arrived in Italy from [[Euboea]] island in the eighth century B.C.E., were possibly the first to use the reference ''land of bulls.''  
The word Italy derives from the [[Homeric Greek|Homer]]ic ([[Aeolic Greek|Aeolic]]) word ιταλός [http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/lexica.html], which means ''[[Cattle|bull]]''. Excavations throughout Italy have found proof of people in Italy dating back to the [[Palaeolithic]] period (the "Old Stone Age") some 200,000 years ago. The first Greek settlers, who arrived in Italy from [[Euboea]] island in the [[8th century B.C.E.]], were possibly the first to use the reference ''land of bulls''.
 
  
 
Italy has influenced the [[Culture|cultural]] and social development of the whole [[Mediterranean Basin|Mediterranean area]], deeply influencing [[Europe]]an culture as well. As a result it has also influenced other important cultures. Such cultures and [[civilization]]s have existed there since [[Prehistory|prehistoric]] times. After [[Magna Graecia]], the [[Etruscan civilization]] and especially the [[Roman Republic]] and [[Roman Empire|Empire]] that dominated this part of the world for many centuries, Italy was central to European [[science]] and [[art]] during the [[Renaissance]].
 
Italy has influenced the [[Culture|cultural]] and social development of the whole [[Mediterranean Basin|Mediterranean area]], deeply influencing [[Europe]]an culture as well. As a result it has also influenced other important cultures. Such cultures and [[civilization]]s have existed there since [[Prehistory|prehistoric]] times. After [[Magna Graecia]], the [[Etruscan civilization]] and especially the [[Roman Republic]] and [[Roman Empire|Empire]] that dominated this part of the world for many centuries, Italy was central to European [[science]] and [[art]] during the [[Renaissance]].
  
[[Image:Lightmatter_colosseum.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The Roman [[Colosseum]], perhaps the most enduring symbol of Italy.]]
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[[Image:Lightmatter_colosseum.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The Roman [[Coliseum]], perhaps the most enduring symbol of Italy.]]
  
 
Serving as the center of the Roman civilization for centuries, Italy lost its unity after the collapse of the Roman Empire and subsequent [[Barbarian|barbaric]] invasions. Briefly reunited under [[Byzantium]] (552), Italy was occupied by the Longobards in 568, resulting in the peninsula becoming seriously divided. For centuries the country was the prey of different populations, resulting in its ultimate decline. Most of the population fled from cities to take refuge in the countryside under the protection of powerful [[Feudalism|feudal]] lords. After the Longobards came the Franks (774). Italy became part of the [[Holy Roman Empire]], later to become the Holy Roman Germanic Empire. [[Pippin the Short]] created the first nucleus of the State of the Vatican, which later became a strong countervailing force against any unification of the country.
 
Serving as the center of the Roman civilization for centuries, Italy lost its unity after the collapse of the Roman Empire and subsequent [[Barbarian|barbaric]] invasions. Briefly reunited under [[Byzantium]] (552), Italy was occupied by the Longobards in 568, resulting in the peninsula becoming seriously divided. For centuries the country was the prey of different populations, resulting in its ultimate decline. Most of the population fled from cities to take refuge in the countryside under the protection of powerful [[Feudalism|feudal]] lords. After the Longobards came the Franks (774). Italy became part of the [[Holy Roman Empire]], later to become the Holy Roman Germanic Empire. [[Pippin the Short]] created the first nucleus of the State of the Vatican, which later became a strong countervailing force against any unification of the country.
  
[[Population]] and economy started to pick up slowly after 1000, with the resurgence of cities, trade, arts and [[literature]]. During the later [[Middle Ages]] the fragmentation of the peninsula, especially in the northern and central parts of the country, continued, while the southern part, with [[Naples]], [[Apulia]] and [[Sicily]], remained a single dominion. Venice created a powerful commercial empire in the Eastern part of the [[Mediterranean Sea]] and [[Black Sea]].
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[[Population]] and economy started to pick up slowly after 1000, with the resurgence of cities, trade, arts and [[literature]]. During the later [[Middle Ages]] the fragmentation of the peninsula, especially in the northern and central parts of the country, continued, while the southern part, with [[Naples]], [[Apulia]] and [[Sicily]], remained a single dominion. Venice created a powerful commercial empire in the Eastern part of the [[Mediterranean Sea]] and [[Black Sea]].
  
 
The [[Black Death]] (1348) inflicted a terrible blow to Italy, resulting in one third of the population being killed by the [[disease]]. The recovery from this disaster led to a new resurgence of cities, trade and economy which greatly stimulated the successive phase of [[Humanism]] and the Renaissance (XV-XVI) when Italy again returned as the center of Western civilization, exerting strong influence on the other European countries.
 
The [[Black Death]] (1348) inflicted a terrible blow to Italy, resulting in one third of the population being killed by the [[disease]]. The recovery from this disaster led to a new resurgence of cities, trade and economy which greatly stimulated the successive phase of [[Humanism]] and the Renaissance (XV-XVI) when Italy again returned as the center of Western civilization, exerting strong influence on the other European countries.
  
 
===Domination by other countries===
 
===Domination by other countries===
After a century where the fragmented system of Italian states and principalities were able to maintain a relative independence and a balance of power in the peninsula, the French king [[Charles VIII of France|Charles VIII]] in 1494 opened the first of a series of invasions, that lasted half of the 16th century, and created a competition between [[France]] and [[Spain]] for the possession of the country. Ultimately Spain prevailed (the [[Treaty of Cateau-Cambresis]] in 1559 recognized the Spanish possession of the Kingdom of Naples) and for almost two centuries became the [[hegemon]] in Italy. The alliance between reactionary [[Catholic]] Spain and the [[Holy See]] resulted in the systematic persecution of any [[Protestant]] movement, with the result that Italy remained a Catholic country with marginal protestant presence. The Spanish domination and the control of the Church resulted in intellectual stagnation and economic decadence, also attributable to the shifting of the main commercial routes from the Mediterranean to the [[Atlantic Ocean]].  
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After a century where the fragmented system of Italian states and principalities were able to maintain a relative independence and a balance of power in the peninsula, the French king [[Charles VIII of France|Charles VIII]] in 1494 opened the first of a series of invasions, that lasted half of the sixteenth century, and created a competition between [[France]] and [[Spain]] for the possession of the country. Ultimately Spain prevailed (the [[Treaty of Cateau-Cambresis]] in 1559 recognized the Spanish possession of the Kingdom of Naples) and for almost two centuries became the [[hegemon]] in Italy. The alliance between reactionary [[Catholic]] Spain and the [[Holy See]] resulted in the systematic [[persecution]] of any [[Protestant]] movement, with the result that Italy remained a Catholic country with marginal Protestant presence. The Spanish domination and the control of the Church resulted in intellectual stagnation and economic decadence, also attributable to the shifting of the main commercial routes from the Mediterranean to the [[Atlantic Ocean]].  
  
[[Austria]] succeeded Spain as hegemon in Italy after the [[Peace of Utrecht]] (1713), having acquired the [[State of Milan]] and the [[Kingdom of Naples]]. The Austrian domination, thanks also to the Illuminism embraced by Absburgic emperors, was a considerable improvement upon the Spanish one. The northern part of Italy, under the direct control of [[Vienna]] recovered its economic dynamism and intellectual fervor.
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[[Austria]] succeeded Spain as hegemon in Italy after the [[Peace of Utrecht]] (1713), having acquired the [[State of Milan]] and the [[Kingdom of Naples]]. The Austrian domination, thanks also to the Illuminism embraced by [[Habsburg Empire|Habsburg]] emperors, was a considerable improvement upon the Spanish one. The northern part of Italy, under the direct control of [[Vienna]] recovered its economic dynamism and intellectual fervor.
  
 
The [[French Revolution]] and the [[Napoleonic War]] (1796-1851) introduced the modern ideas of equality, [[democracy]], [[law]] and [[nation]]. The peninsula was not a main battle field as in the past but [[Napoleon]] completely changed its political map by destroying the [[Republic of Venice]] in 1799, which never recovered its independence. The states founded by Napoleon, with the support of minority groups of Italian patriots, were short-lived and did not survive the defeat of the French Emperor in 1815.  
 
The [[French Revolution]] and the [[Napoleonic War]] (1796-1851) introduced the modern ideas of equality, [[democracy]], [[law]] and [[nation]]. The peninsula was not a main battle field as in the past but [[Napoleon]] completely changed its political map by destroying the [[Republic of Venice]] in 1799, which never recovered its independence. The states founded by Napoleon, with the support of minority groups of Italian patriots, were short-lived and did not survive the defeat of the French Emperor in 1815.  
  
The Restoration saw all the pre-Revolution states restored with the exception of the Republic of Venice (previously under Austrian control) and the [[Republic of Genoa]] (under Savoy domination). Napoleon rule give birth to the first national movement for unity and independence. Albeit formed by small groups with almost no contact with the masses, the Italian patriots and liberals staged several uprisings in the decades up to 1860. [[Mazzini]] and [[Garibaldi]] created the most economic reform for the impoverished masses. From 1848 onwards the Italian patriots were openly supported by [[Vittorio Emanuele II]], the [[king of Sardinia]], who put his arms in the Italian tricolor dedicating the [[House of Savoy]] to Italian unity.
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The Restoration saw all the pre-Revolution states restored with the exception of the Republic of Venice (previously under Austrian control) and the [[Republic of Genoa]] (under Savoy domination). Napoleon rule give birth to the first national movement for unity and independence. Albeit formed by small groups with almost no contact with the masses, the Italian patriots and liberals staged several uprisings in the decades up to 1860. [[Giuseppe Mazzini]] and [[Giuseppe Garibaldi]] created the most economic reform for the impoverished masses. From 1848 onwards the Italian patriots were openly supported by [[Vittorio Emanuele II]], the [[king of Sardinia]], who put his arms in the Italian tricolor dedicating the [[House of Savoy]] to Italian unity.
  
 
===Unification===
 
===Unification===
The unification of Italy was declared on March 17 1861, after a successful war (the Second War of Independence) against Austria with the support of France, and after [[Giuseppe Garibaldi]] organized an invasion of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies (Naples and Sicily) in 1860. [[Vittorio Emanuele II]] became the first king of the united Italy.
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The unification of Italy was declared on March 17, 1861, after a successful war (the [[Second War of Independence]]) against [[Austria]] with the support of [[France]], and after [[Giuseppe Garibaldi]] organized an invasion of the [[Kingdom of Two Sicilies]] (Naples and [[Sicily]]) in 1860. [[Vittorio Emanuele II]] became the first king of the united Italy.
  
The national territory was enlarged to Veneto and Venice in 1866 after the third War of Independence, fought by allied Italy and [[Prussia]] against Austria. [[Rome]] itself remained for a little less than a decade under the [[Papacy]] thanks to French protection, and became part of the Kingdom of Italy on September 20, 1870, after Italian troops stormed the city.
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The national territory was enlarged to Veneto and [[Venice]] in 1866 after the third War of Independence, fought by allied Italy and [[Prussia]] against Austria. [[Rome]] itself remained for a little less than a decade under the [[Papacy]] thanks to French protection, and became part of the [[Kingdom of Italy]] on September 20, 1870, after Italian troops stormed the city.
  
The first unified state was plagued by a gruesome rebellion of the Southern populations opposed to the new domination, by economic stagnation, misery, illiteracy and a weak national [[consciousness]]. Italian was spoken by a small part of the population while the rest spoke local dialects.
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The first unified state was plagued by a gruesome rebellion of the Southern populations opposed to the new domination, by economic stagnation, misery, [[illiteracy]] and a weak national [[consciousness]]. [[Italian language|Italian]] was spoken by a small part of the population while the rest spoke local dialects.
  
 
In 1878 [[Umberto I]] succeeded his father Vittorio Emanuele II as King of Italy. He was killed by an [[Anarchism|anarchist]] in 1900 and succeeded by his son [[Vittorio Emanuele III]].
 
In 1878 [[Umberto I]] succeeded his father Vittorio Emanuele II as King of Italy. He was killed by an [[Anarchism|anarchist]] in 1900 and succeeded by his son [[Vittorio Emanuele III]].
  
[[Industrial Age|Industrialization]] and modernization, at least in the northern part of the country, started in the last part of the 19th century under a protectionist regime. The south, meanwhile, stagnated under overpopulation and underdevelopment, forcing millions of people to search for employment and better conditions abroad. This lasted until 1970. It is calculated that more than 26 million Italians migrated to France, Germany, Switzerland, [[United States]], [[Argentina]], [[Brazil]] and [[Australia]].  
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[[Industrial Age|Industrialization]] and [[modernization]], at least in the northern part of the country, started in the last part of the nineteenth century under a protectionist regime. The south, meanwhile, stagnated under overpopulation and underdevelopment, forcing millions of people to search for employment and better conditions abroad. This lasted until 1970. It is calculated that more than 26 million Italians migrated to [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Switzerland]], [[United States]], [[Argentina]], [[Brazil]], and [[Australia]].
  
 
===Democracy===
 
===Democracy===
[[Democracy]] made its first appearance at the beginning of the 20th century. The 1848 Constitution provided for basic freedoms but the electoral laws excluded the disposed and the uneducated from [[Vote|voting]]. It wasn't until 1913 that male [[universal suffrage]] was allowed. The [[Socialism|Socialist]] Party became the main political party, replacing the traditional [[liberal]] and [[conservative]] organizations. The path to a modern liberal democracy was interrupted by the tragedy of the [[World War I]] (1915-18), which Italy fought along with France and [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]]. Italy was able to beat the [[Austrian-Hungarian Empire]] in November 1918. It obtained [[Trento]] and [[Trieste]] and a few territories on the [[Dalmatia|Dalmatian coast]]. ([[Zadar|Zara]]) was considered a great power, but the population had to pay a heavy price. The war produced more than 600,000 dead, [[inflation]] and [[unemployment]], economic and political instability, which in the end allowed the [[Fascism|fascist]] movement to reach power in 1922 with the tacit support of King Vittorio Emanuele III, who feared [[civil war]] and [[revolution]].
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[[Democracy]] made its first appearance at the beginning of the twentieth century. The 1848 Constitution provided for basic freedoms but the electoral laws excluded the disposed and the uneducated from [[Vote|voting]]. It wasn't until 1913 that male [[universal suffrage]] was allowed. The [[Socialism|Socialist]] Party became the main political party, replacing the traditional [[liberal]] and [[conservative]] organizations. The path to a modern liberal democracy was interrupted by the tragedy of the [[World War I]] (1914-1918), which Italy fought along with France and [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]]. Italy was able to beat the [[Austrian-Hungarian Empire]] in November 1918. It obtained [[Trento]] and [[Trieste]] and a few territories on the [[Dalmatia|Dalmatian coast]]. ([[Zadar|Zara]]) was considered a great power, but the population had to pay a heavy price. The war produced more than 600,000 dead, [[inflation]] and [[unemployment]], economic and [[political instability]], which in the end allowed the [[Fascism|fascist]] movement to reach power in 1922 with the tacit support of King [[Vittorio Emanuele III]], who feared [[civil war]] and [[revolution]].
 
 
  
 
===Mussolini===
 
===Mussolini===
The fascist dictatorship of [[Benito Mussolini]] lasted from 1922 to 1943 but in the first years Mussolini maintained the appearance of a liberal democracy. After rigged elections in 1924 gave Fascism and its conservative allies an absolute majority in the [[Parliament]], Mussolini canceled all democratic liberties in January 1925. He then proceeded to establish a [[Totalitarianism|totalitarian]] state. Political parties were banned, independent trade unions were closed. The only permitted party was the [[National Fascist Party]]. A [[secret police]] ([[OVRA]]) and a system of quasi-legal repression (Tribunale Speciale) ensured the total control of the regime upon the Italians who, while in the majority, either resigned themselves to or welcomed the [[dictator]]ship, many considering it a last resort to stop the spread of [[communism]]. While relatively benign in comparison to [[Nazism|Nazi]] [[Germany]] or [[Stalinism|Stalinist]] [[Russia]], several thousand people were incarcerated or exiled for their opposition and many were killed by fascist thugs ([[Carlo Rosselli]]) or died in prison ([[Antonio Gramsci]]). Mussolini tried to spread his authoritarian [[ideology]] to other European countries and dictators such as [[António de Oliveira Salazar|Salazar]] in [[Portugal]], General [[Francisco Franco]] in Spain and [[Hitler]] in Germany. Conservative, democratic leaders in Great Britain and United States were favorable to Mussolini in the early years of his governance.  
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The [[fascism|fascist]] dictatorship of [[Benito Mussolini]] lasted from 1922 to 1943 but in the first years Mussolini maintained the appearance of a liberal democracy. After rigged elections in 1924 gave Fascism and its conservative allies an absolute majority in the [[Parliament]], Mussolini canceled all democratic liberties in January 1925. He then proceeded to establish a [[Totalitarianism|totalitarian]] state. Political parties were banned, independent trade unions were closed. The only permitted party was the [[National Fascist Party]]. A [[secret police]] ([[OVRA]]) and a system of quasi-legal repression (Tribunale Speciale) ensured the total control of the regime upon the Italians who, while in the majority, either resigned themselves to or welcomed the [[dictator]]ship, many considering it a last resort to stop the spread of [[communism]]. While relatively benign in comparison to [[Nazism|Nazi]] [[Germany]] or [[Stalinism|Stalinist]] [[Russia]], several thousand people were incarcerated or exiled for their opposition and many were killed by fascist thugs ([[Carlo Rosselli]]) or died in prison ([[Antonio Gramsci]]). Mussolini tried to spread his authoritarian [[ideology]] to other European countries and dictators such as [[António de Oliveira Salazar|Salazar]] in [[Portugal]], General [[Francisco Franco]] in Spain and [[Hitler]] in Germany. Conservative, democratic leaders in Great Britain and United States were favorable to Mussolini in the early years of his governance.  
  
In 1929 Mussolini formed a pact with the [[Holy See]], resulting in the rebirth of an independent state of the [[Vatican City|Vatican]] for the [[Catholic Church]] in the heart of [[Rome]]. In 1935 he declared war on [[Ethiopia]]an it was subjugated in few months. This resulted in the alienation of Italy from its traditional allies, France and Great Britain, and its nearing to Nazi Germany. A pact with Germany was concluded in 1936 and then another in 1938 (the Iron Pact). Italy supported Franco's revolution and Hitler's advances in central Europe, accepting the annexation of Austria to Germany in 1938, even though the disappearance of a buffer state between mighty Germany and Italy was unfavorable for the country. In October 1938 Mussolini managed to avoid the eruption of another war in Europe, bringing together Great Britain, France and Germany at [[Czechoslovakia]]'s expense.
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In 1929 Mussolini formed a pact with the [[Holy See]], resulting in the rebirth of an independent state of the [[Vatican City|Vatican]] for the [[Catholic Church]] in the heart of [[Rome]]. In 1935 he declared war on [[Ethiopia]]n it was subjugated in few months. This resulted in the alienation of Italy from its traditional allies, France and Great Britain, and its nearing to Nazi Germany. A pact with Germany was concluded in 1936 and then another in 1938 (the Iron Pact). Italy supported Franco's revolution and Hitler's advances in central Europe, accepting the annexation of Austria to Germany in 1938, even though the disappearance of a buffer state between mighty Germany and Italy was unfavorable for the country. In October 1938 Mussolini managed to avoid the eruption of another war in Europe, bringing together Great Britain, France and Germany at [[Czechoslovakia]]'s expense.
  
 
In April 1939 Italy occupied [[Albania]], a ''de-facto'' protectorate for decades, but in September 1939, after the invasion of [[Poland]], Mussolini decided not to intervene on Germany's side, due to the poor preparation of the Italian armed forces. Italy entered the war in June 1940 when France was almost defeated. Mussolini hoped for a quick victory but Italy suffered from the very beginning from the poor training of its army and the lack of experience of its [[general]]s. Italy invaded [[Greece]] in October 1940 via Albania but after a few days was forced to withdraw. After conquering British [[Somalia]] in 1940, a counter-attack by the Allies led to the loss of the whole Italian empire in the [[Horn of Africa]]. Italy was also defeated in [[Northern Africa]] and saved only by the German armed forces led by [[Rommel]].
 
In April 1939 Italy occupied [[Albania]], a ''de-facto'' protectorate for decades, but in September 1939, after the invasion of [[Poland]], Mussolini decided not to intervene on Germany's side, due to the poor preparation of the Italian armed forces. Italy entered the war in June 1940 when France was almost defeated. Mussolini hoped for a quick victory but Italy suffered from the very beginning from the poor training of its army and the lack of experience of its [[general]]s. Italy invaded [[Greece]] in October 1940 via Albania but after a few days was forced to withdraw. After conquering British [[Somalia]] in 1940, a counter-attack by the Allies led to the loss of the whole Italian empire in the [[Horn of Africa]]. Italy was also defeated in [[Northern Africa]] and saved only by the German armed forces led by [[Rommel]].
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Agitation against the king ran high in the north where leftist and communist armed partisans wanted to depose him. Vittorio Emanuele gave up the throne to his son [[Umberto II]] who again faced the possibility of civil war. Italy became a [[Republic]] after a popular [[Referendum in Italy|referendum]] held on June 2, 1946, a day now celebrated as [[Republic Day]]. The republic won with a 9 percent margin; the north of Italy voted prevalently for a republic, the south for the [[monarchy]]. The Republican Constitution was approved and went into effect on January 1, 1948. It included a provisional measure banning all male members of the house of Savoy from Italy. This stipulation was redressed in 2002.
 
Agitation against the king ran high in the north where leftist and communist armed partisans wanted to depose him. Vittorio Emanuele gave up the throne to his son [[Umberto II]] who again faced the possibility of civil war. Italy became a [[Republic]] after a popular [[Referendum in Italy|referendum]] held on June 2, 1946, a day now celebrated as [[Republic Day]]. The republic won with a 9 percent margin; the north of Italy voted prevalently for a republic, the south for the [[monarchy]]. The Republican Constitution was approved and went into effect on January 1, 1948. It included a provisional measure banning all male members of the house of Savoy from Italy. This stipulation was redressed in 2002.
 
   
 
   
Since then Italy has experienced a strong economic growth, particularly in the 50s and 60s, which lifted the country to the position of being one of the most industrialized nations in the world, albeit with perennial political instability. The [[Christian Democratic Party]] and its liberal and social democratic allies ruled Italy without interruption from 1948 until 1994, marginalizing the main opposition party, the [[Italian Communist Party]], until the end of the [[cold war]].  
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Since then Italy has experienced a strong economic growth, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, which lifted the country to the position of being one of the most [[industrialization|industrialized]] nations in the world, albeit with perennial political instability. The [[Christian Democratic Party]] and its liberal and social democratic allies ruled Italy without interruption from 1948 until 1994, marginalizing the main opposition party, the [[Italian Communist Party]], until the end of the [[cold war]].  
  
In 1992-94 a series of scandals (nicknamed ''"[[Tangentopoli]]"'') and the ensuing ''[[Mani pulite]]'' investigation destroyed the post-war political system. New parties and coalitions emerged: on the right, ''[[Forza Italia]]'' of the media-mogul [[Silvio Berlusconi]] became the main successor of the Christian Democrat party. On the left the ''[[Democrats of the Left|Democratici di Sinistra]]'' (Democrats of the Left) became the moderate successors of the Communist Party, while the most liberal and progressive Catholic politicians became a part of [[Daisy—Democracy is Freedom|''La Margherita'']] (the Daisy). In 1994 Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia and its allies ([[National Alliance (Italy)|National Alliance]] and the [[Northern League (Italy)|Northern League]]) won the elections but the government collapsed after only a few months because the Northern League split out. A [[technical government]] cabinet led by [[Lamberto Dini]], supported by the left-wing parties and the Northern League, lasted until [[Romano Prodi]]'s new center-left coalition won the [[Italian general election, 1996|1996 general election]]. In 2001 the center-right took the government and Berlusconi was able to remain in power for five years. The 2006 elections returned Prodi with a slim majority.
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In 1992-1994 a series of scandals (nicknamed ''"[[Tangentopoli]]"'') and the ensuing ''[[Mani pulite]]'' investigation destroyed the post-war political system. New parties and coalitions emerged: on the right, ''[[Forza Italia]]'' of the media-mogul [[Silvio Berlusconi]] became the main successor of the Christian Democrat party. On the left the ''[[Democrats of the Left|Democratici di Sinistra]]'' (Democrats of the Left) became the moderate successors of the [[Communist]] Party, while the most liberal and progressive Catholic politicians became a part of [[Daisy—Democracy is Freedom|''La Margherita'']] (the Daisy). In 1994 Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia and its allies ([[National Alliance (Italy)|National Alliance]] and the [[Northern League (Italy)|Northern League]]) won the elections but the government collapsed after only a few months because the Northern League split out. A [[technical government]] cabinet led by [[Lamberto Dini]], supported by the left-wing parties and the Northern League, lasted until [[Romano Prodi]]'s new center-left coalition won the [[Italian general election, 1996|1996 general election]]. In 2001 the center-right took the government and Berlusconi was able to remain in power for five years. The 2006 elections returned Prodi with a slim majority.
  
 
Italy is a founding member of the [[European Community]], [[European Union]] and [[NATO]].
 
Italy is a founding member of the [[European Community]], [[European Union]] and [[NATO]].
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[[Image:Presidente Napolitano.jpg|thumb|225px|[[Giorgio Napolitano]], [[President of the Italian Republic]] elected on May 10, 2006.]]
 
[[Image:Presidente Napolitano.jpg|thumb|225px|[[Giorgio Napolitano]], [[President of the Italian Republic]] elected on May 10, 2006.]]
  
The 1948 [[Constitution of Italy]] established a [[bicameral]] [[parliament]] ''([[Italian Parliament|Parlamento]])'', consisting of a [[Italian Chamber of Deputies|Chamber of Deputies]] ''(Camera dei Deputati)'' and a [[Italian Senate|Senate]] ''(Senato della Repubblica)'', a separate [[judiciary]], and an [[executive branch]] composed of a Council of Ministers ([[Cabinet (government)|cabinet]]) ''(Consiglio dei ministri)'', headed by the [[Prime Minister of Italy|prime minister]] ''(Presidente del consiglio dei ministri)''.
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The 1948 [[Constitution of Italy]] established a [[bicameral]] [[parliament]] ''([[Italian Parliament|Parlamento]]),'' consisting of a [[Italian Chamber of Deputies|Chamber of Deputies]] ''(Camera dei Deputati)'' and a [[Italian Senate|Senate]] ''(Senato della Repubblica),'' a separate [[judiciary]], and an [[executive branch]] composed of a Council of Ministers ([[Cabinet (government)|cabinet]]) ''(Consiglio dei ministri),'' headed by the [[Prime Minister of Italy|prime minister]] ''(Presidente del consiglio dei ministri).''
  
 
The President of the Republic ''(Presidente della Repubblica)'' is [[election|elected]] for seven years by the parliament sitting jointly with a small number of regional delegates. The president nominates the prime minister, who proposes the other ministers (formally named by the president). The Council of Ministers must retain the support ''(fiducia)'' of both houses.
 
The President of the Republic ''(Presidente della Repubblica)'' is [[election|elected]] for seven years by the parliament sitting jointly with a small number of regional delegates. The president nominates the prime minister, who proposes the other ministers (formally named by the president). The Council of Ministers must retain the support ''(fiducia)'' of both houses.
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[[Silvio Berlusconi]], from May 8, 2008 to his resignation on November 12, 2011, was Prime Minister, leading a center-right coalition. Italy's four major political parties are the [[People of Freedom]], the [[Democratic Party (Italy)|Democratic Party]], the [[Northern League (Italy)|Northern League]] and the [[Italy of Values]]. During the [[Italian general election, 2008|2008 general elections]] these four parties won 590 out of 630 seats available in the Chamber of Deputies and 308 out of 315 seats available in the Senate of the Republic. Most of the remaining seats were won by minor parties that only contest election in one part of Italy, like the [[South Tyrolean People's Party]] and the [[Movement for Autonomies]]. However, more recently the "[[New Pole for Italy|Third Pole]]" emerged, merging the Christian Democrats of [[Union of Christian and Centre Democrats|UDC]] with some dissident members of Mr. Berlusconi's cabinet.
  
 
The houses of [[parliament]] are popularly and directly elected through a complex electoral system (latest amendment in 2005) which combines proportional representation with a majority prize for the largest coalition (Chamber). The electoral system in the Senate is based upon regional representation. The Chamber of Deputies has 630 members, the Senate 315 elected senators; in addition, the Senate includes former presidents and other persons (no more than five) appointed senators for life by the President of the Republic according to special constitutional provisions. As of May 15, 2006, there are seven [[senator for life|life senators]] (of which three are former Presidents). Both houses are elected for a maximum of five years, but both may be dissolved by the President of the Republic before the expiration of their normal term if the Parliament is unable to elect a stable government. In post-war history, it happened in 1972, 1976, 1979, 1983, 1994 and 1996.
 
The houses of [[parliament]] are popularly and directly elected through a complex electoral system (latest amendment in 2005) which combines proportional representation with a majority prize for the largest coalition (Chamber). The electoral system in the Senate is based upon regional representation. The Chamber of Deputies has 630 members, the Senate 315 elected senators; in addition, the Senate includes former presidents and other persons (no more than five) appointed senators for life by the President of the Republic according to special constitutional provisions. As of May 15, 2006, there are seven [[senator for life|life senators]] (of which three are former Presidents). Both houses are elected for a maximum of five years, but both may be dissolved by the President of the Republic before the expiration of their normal term if the Parliament is unable to elect a stable government. In post-war history, it happened in 1972, 1976, 1979, 1983, 1994 and 1996.
  
A peculiarity of the Italian Parliament is the representation given to Italians permanently living abroad (more than 2 million). Among the 630 Deputies and the 315 Senators there are respectively 12 and 6 elected in four distinct foreign constituencies. Those members of Parliament were elected for the first time in April 2006 and they enjoy the same rights as members elected in Italy. Legislative bills may originate in either house and must be passed by a majority in both. The Italian judicial system is based on Roman law modified by the [[Napoleonic code]] and later statutes. A [[Constitution|constitutional]] court, the ''Corte Costituzionale'', passes on the constitutionality of laws, and is a post-World War II innovation.
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A peculiarity of the Italian Parliament is the representation given to Italians permanently living abroad (more than two million). Among the 630 Deputies and the 315 Senators there are respectively 12 and 6 elected in four distinct foreign constituencies. Those members of Parliament were elected for the first time in April 2006 and they enjoy the same rights as members elected in Italy. In addition, the Italian Senate also has a small number of [[senator for life|senators for life]], appointed by the President of the Italian Republic "for outstanding patriotic merits in the social, scientific, artistic or literary field." Former Presidents of the Republic are ''ex officio'' life senators.
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Legislative bills may originate in either house and must be passed by a majority in both. The Italian judicial system is based on Roman law modified by the [[Napoleonic code]] and later statutes. A [[Constitution|constitutional]] court, the ''Corte Costituzionale,'' passes on the constitutionality of laws, and is a post-World War II innovation.
  
 
All Italian citizens older than 18 can vote. However, to vote for the senate, the voter must be at least 25 or older.
 
All Italian citizens older than 18 can vote. However, to vote for the senate, the voter must be at least 25 or older.
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[[Image:Italy.geohive.gif|thumb|300px|right|[[Subnational|Administrative division]]s.]]
 
[[Image:Italy.geohive.gif|thumb|300px|right|[[Subnational|Administrative division]]s.]]
  
Italy is subdivided into 20 regions (''regioni'', singular ''regione''). Five of these regions enjoy a [[Autonomous regions with special statute (Italy)|special autonomous status]] that enables them to enact legislation on some of their specific local matters, and are marked by an *:
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Italy is subdivided into 20 regions (''regioni,'' singular ''regione''). Five of these regions enjoy a [[Autonomous regions with special statute (Italy)|special autonomous status]] that enables them to enact legislation on some of their specific local matters, and are marked by an *:
 
#[[Abruzzo]] (with capital [[L'Aquila]])
 
#[[Abruzzo]] (with capital [[L'Aquila]])
 
#[[Basilicata]] ([[Potenza]])
 
#[[Basilicata]] ([[Potenza]])
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== Economy ==
 
== Economy ==
 
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According to [[Gross Domestic Product|GDP]] calculations, as measured by purchasing power parity (PPP), Italy was ranked was the 8th largest economy in the world in 2006, behind the [[United States]], [[Japan]], [[Germany]], [[Peoples Republic of China|China]], [[India]], [[United Kingdom|UK]], and [[France]], and was the fourth largest in Europe. According to the OECD, in 2004 Italy was the world's sixth-largest exporter of manufactured goods. This [capitalism|capitalistic]] economy remains divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and a less developed [[agriculture|agricultural]] south. Italy's economy has deceptive strength because it is supported by a substantial “underground” economy that functions outside government controls.
According to [[Gross Domestic Product|GDP]] calculations, as measured by purchasing power parity (PPP), Italy is ranked was the 8th largest economy in the world in 2006, behind the [[United States]], [[Japan]], [[Germany]], [[Peoples Republic of China|China]], [[India]], [[United Kingdom|UK]], and [[France]], and the fourth largest in Europe. According to the OECD, in 2004 Italy was the world's sixth-largest exporter of manufactured goods. This [capitalism|capitalistic]] economy remains divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and a less developed [[agriculture|agricultural]] south. Italy's economy has deceptive strength because it is supported by a substantial “underground” economy that functions outside government controls.
 
  
 
Most new materials needed by industry and more than 75 percent of energy requirements are imported. Over the past decade, Italy has pursued a tight fiscal policy in order to meet the requirements of the [[Economic and Monetary Union of the European Union|Economic and Monetary Union]] and has benefited from lower interest and inflation rates. Italy joined the [[Euro]] from its conception in 1999.
 
Most new materials needed by industry and more than 75 percent of energy requirements are imported. Over the past decade, Italy has pursued a tight fiscal policy in order to meet the requirements of the [[Economic and Monetary Union of the European Union|Economic and Monetary Union]] and has benefited from lower interest and inflation rates. Italy joined the [[Euro]] from its conception in 1999.
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Italy's economic performance has at times lagged behind that of its [[European Union|EU]] partners, and the current government has enacted numerous short-term reforms aimed at improving competitiveness and long-term growth. It has moved slowly, however, on implementing certain structural reforms favored by economists, such as lightening the high [[tax]] burden and overhauling Italy's rigid labor market and expensive [[pension]] system, because of the current economic slowdown and opposition from [[labor unions]].
 
Italy's economic performance has at times lagged behind that of its [[European Union|EU]] partners, and the current government has enacted numerous short-term reforms aimed at improving competitiveness and long-term growth. It has moved slowly, however, on implementing certain structural reforms favored by economists, such as lightening the high [[tax]] burden and overhauling Italy's rigid labor market and expensive [[pension]] system, because of the current economic slowdown and opposition from [[labor unions]].
  
Italy has been less successful in terms of developing world class [[multinational corporation]]s. Instead, the country's main economic strength has been its large base of small and medium size companies. These companies typically manufacture products that are moderately advanced technologically and therefore increasingly face crushing competition from China and other emerging [[Asia]]n economies. Meanwhile, a base of corporations able to compete in markets for advanced goods and services is underdeveloped or lacking entirely. It is not obvious how Italy will overcome this significant structural weakness in the short run, and Italy has therefore been referred to as the new "sick man of Europe".<ref>Gumbel, Peter. 2005.
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Italy has been less successful in terms of developing world class [[multinational corporation]]s. Instead, the country's main economic strength has been its large base of small and medium size companies. These companies typically manufacture products that are moderately advanced technologically and therefore increasingly face crushing competition from China and other emerging [[Asia]]n economies. Meanwhile, a base of corporations able to compete in markets for advanced goods and services is underdeveloped or lacking entirely. It is not obvious how Italy will overcome this significant structural weakness in the short run, and Italy has therefore been referred to as the new "sick man of Europe."<ref>Peter Gumbel, Nov. 27, 2005. [http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/printout/0,13675,501051205-1134710,00.html ''Twilight In Italy''] ''TIME.com''. Retrieved August 10, 2007.</ref>
[http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/printout/0,13675,501051205-1134710,00.html ''Twilight In Italy''] ''Time.com''. Retrieved August 10, 2007.</ref>
 
 
 
===Science and Technology===
 
  
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===Science and technology===
 
The contributions of revered Italian [[Visionary|visionaries]] such as [[Galileo Galilei]] and [[Leonardo da Vinci]] made considerable advancements toward the [[Science|scientific]] [[revolution]]. Other notable Italian scientists and inventors include [[Enrico Fermi|Fermi]], [[Giovanni Domenico Cassini|Cassini]], [[Alessandro Volta|Volta]], [[Joseph Louis Lagrange|Lagrange]], [[Fibonacci]], [[Guglielmo Marconi|Marconi]], and [[Meucci]].
 
The contributions of revered Italian [[Visionary|visionaries]] such as [[Galileo Galilei]] and [[Leonardo da Vinci]] made considerable advancements toward the [[Science|scientific]] [[revolution]]. Other notable Italian scientists and inventors include [[Enrico Fermi|Fermi]], [[Giovanni Domenico Cassini|Cassini]], [[Alessandro Volta|Volta]], [[Joseph Louis Lagrange|Lagrange]], [[Fibonacci]], [[Guglielmo Marconi|Marconi]], and [[Meucci]].
  
The Italians love of [[automobile]]s and speed has made Italy famous for its production of many of the world's most famous sports cars and the industry that flourishes there. Some of the world's most elite vehicles were developed in Italy: [[Lambourghini]], [[Ferrari]], [[Alfa Romeo]], and [[Masarati]] are but a few of the well-known luxury cars that originated in Italy.
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The Italians love of [[automobile]]s and speed has made Italy famous for its production of many of the world's most famous sports cars and the industry that flourishes there. Some of the world's most elite vehicles were developed in Italy: [[Lamborghini]], [[Ferrari]], [[Alfa Romeo]], and [[Masarati]] are but a few of the well-known luxury cars that originated in Italy.
  
 
== Demographics ==
 
== Demographics ==
 
[[Image:gondola.arp.750pix.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Venice]]]]
 
[[Image:gondola.arp.750pix.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Venice]]]]
 
===Ethnicity===
 
===Ethnicity===
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Italy is largely homogeneous in language and [[religion]] but is diverse [[Culture|culturally]], [[Economics|economically]], and [[Politics|politically]]. The country has the fifth-highest [[population]] density in Europe at 193 persons per square kilometre<!--spelled out per WP:MOSNUM —> (499/[[square mile|sq. mi]]). However, like [[Germany]], Italy's main population centers on major cities like [[Turin]], [[Rome]], [[Milan]], and [[Naples]], but with no single large city to rival the size of cities such as [[London]], [[Paris]] or [[Moscow]]. As with many other nations in Europe, Italy is currently facing a natural population decline, supplemented only by [[Immigrant|immigration]]. Italy receives roughly 300,000 immigrants a year, second only to the United States.<ref>[http://www.guardian.co.uk/immigration/story/0,,1852513,00.html Immigration fails to stem European population loss] ''Guardian Unlimited'', August 17, 2006. Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> Population estimates place Italy's population at roughly 41 million in 2050 if the current population trend continues.<ref>Anne Swandson, "Young Europeans, Going Mobile," ''Washington Post'', March 15, 2000. "Replacement Migration: Is It A Solution To Declining And Aging Populations?" online [http://www.migration.ucdavis.edu/mn/more.php?id=2067_0_4_0 EU: Demography, Immigration] ''Migration News'', 6 (2) (April 2000)
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Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref>
  
Italy is largely homogeneous in language and [[religion]] but is diverse [[Culture|culturally]], [[Economics|economically]], and [[Politics|politically]]. The country has the fifth-highest [[population]] density in Europe at 193 persons per square kilometre<!--spelled out per WP:MOSNUM —> (499/[[square mile|sq. mi]]). However, like [[Germany]], Italy's main population centers on major cities like [[Turin]], [[Rome]], [[Milan]], and [[Naples]], but with no single large city to rival the size of cities such as [[London]], [[Paris]] or [[Moscow]]. As with many other nations in Europe, Italy is currently facing a natural population decline, supplemented only by [[Immigrant|immigration]]. Italy receives roughly 300,000 immigrants a year, second only to the United States.<ref>[http://www.guardian.co.uk/immigration/story/0,,1852513,00.html Immigration fails to stem European population loss] ''Guardian Unlimited.'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> Population estimates place Italy's population at roughly 41 million in 2050 if the current population trend continues.<ref>[http://www.migration.ucdavis.edu/mn/more.php?id=2067_0_4_0 EU: Demography, Immigration] ''Migration News.'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref>
+
The number of modern immigrants or foreign residents in Italy has steadily increased to reach 2,402,157, according to the 2005 figures of [[Istituto Nazionale di Statistica|ISTAT]]. They currently make up a little more than 4 percent of the official total population. The majority of immigrants in Italy come from other surrounding European nations, and they number 1,122,276, coming chiefly from [[Albania]], [[Romania]], the [[Ukraine]], and [[Poland]]. French nationals living in Italy, according to ISTAT figures, are more commonly women than men. The next largest group consists of [[North Africa]]n [[Arab]] groups, and they number some 447,310 chiefly from [[Morocco]], and [[Tunisia]]. Smaller groups consists of [[Asian]]s, [[South America]]ns, and sub-Saharan [[Africa]]ns.
 
 
The number of modern immigrants or foreign residents in Italy has steadily increased to reach 2,402,157, according to the 2005 figures of [[Istituto Nazionale di Statistica|ISTAT]]. They currently make up a little more than 4 percent of the official total population. The majority of immigrants in Italy come from other surrounding European nations, and they number 1,122,276, coming chiefly from [[Albania]], [[Romania]], the [[Ukraine]], and [[Poland]]. French nationals living in Italy, according to ISTAT figures, are more commonly women than men. The next largest group consists of North African [[Arab]] groups, and they number some 447,310 chiefly from [[Morocco]], and [[Tunisia]]. Smaller groups consists of [[Asian]]s, [[South America]]ns, and sub-saharan [[Africa]]ns.
 
  
 
The top five largest foreign minorities are [[Albanians|Albanian]] (316,659), [[Moroccan]] (294,945), [[Romanian people|Romanian]] (248,849{{rf|1|Romanian}}), [[Chinese]] (111,712), and [[Ukrainians|Ukrainian]] (93,441).
 
The top five largest foreign minorities are [[Albanians|Albanian]] (316,659), [[Moroccan]] (294,945), [[Romanian people|Romanian]] (248,849{{rf|1|Romanian}}), [[Chinese]] (111,712), and [[Ukrainians|Ukrainian]] (93,441).
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=== Religion ===
 
=== Religion ===
 
[[Image:Basilica di San Pietro front (MM).jpg|300px|thumb|right|[[Saint Peter's Basilica]], Rome.]]
 
[[Image:Basilica di San Pietro front (MM).jpg|300px|thumb|right|[[Saint Peter's Basilica]], Rome.]]
[[Roman Catholicism]] is by far the largest religion in the country. Although the Catholic church has been separated from the state, it still plays a role in the nation's political affairs partly due to [[Holy See]]'s location in [[Vatican City]], within [[Rome]] itself. Some 98 percent <ref>[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/it.html#People The World Fact Book] ''Cia.gov'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> of Italians are [[Roman Catholic]] of which one-third are active members. Other [[Christian]] groups in Italy include [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] 400,000<ref>[http://www.jw-media.org/region/europe/italy/english/releases/religious_freedom/ita_e000321.htm Jehovah's Witnesses gain greater recognition as a religion in Italy] ''jw-media.org.'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> and the [[Waldensians]] (35,000).  
+
[[Roman Catholicism]] is by far the largest religion in the country. Although the Roman Catholic Church has been separated from the state, it still plays a role in the nation's political affairs partly due to [[Holy See]]'s location in [[Vatican City]], within [[Rome]] itself. Some 98 percent of Italians are [[Roman Catholic]] of which one-third are active members.<ref>[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/it.html#People The World Fact Book: People - Italy] ''CIA.gov'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> Other [[Christian]] groups in Italy include [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] 400,000<ref>[http://www.jw-media.org/region/europe/italy/english/releases/religious_freedom/ita_e000321.htm Jehovah's Witnesses gain greater recognition as a religion in Italy] ''jw-media.org'' March 21, 2000. Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> and the [[Waldensians]] (35,000).  
  
In the past two decades, Italy has received several waves of immigrants and as a result, some 825,000<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4385768.stm#italy Muslims in Europe: Country guide] ''BBC'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref>[[Muslims]] (1.4%) live in Italy, although other estimates indicate that there are up to one million Muslims<ref>[http://www.csmonitor.com/2003/1110/p07s01-woeu.html A rising tide of Muslims in Italy puts pressure on Catholic culture] ''Csmonitor.com.'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> as well as, 75,000 [[Hinduism|Hindu]]s<ref>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2005/51560.htm International Religious Freedom Report 2005] ''State.gov'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref>, 60,000 [[Buddhism|Buddhists]], and a historical community of 30,000 [[Jew|Jewish]] members.
+
In the past two decades, Italy has received several waves of immigrants and as a result, some 825,000<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4385768.stm#italy Muslims in Europe: Country guide] ''BBC News'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref>[[Muslims]] (1.4 percent) live in Italy, although other estimates indicate that there are up to one million Muslims<ref>Sophie Arie, [http://www.csmonitor.com/2003/1110/p07s01-woeu.html A rising tide of Muslims in Italy puts pressure on Catholic culture] ''Christian Science Monitor'', Nov. 10, 2003. Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> as well as, 75,000 [[Hinduism|Hindu]]s,<ref>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2005/51560.htm International Religious Freedom Report 2005: Italy] ''State.gov'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.</ref> 60,000 [[Buddhism|Buddhists]], and a historical community of 30,000 [[Jew|Jewish]] members.
  
 
=== Languages===
 
=== Languages===
 +
The official language of Italy is [[Italian language|Standard Italian]], descendant of [[Tuscan]] dialect and a direct descendant of [[Latin]]. (Some 75 percent of Italian words are of [[Latin language|Latin]] origin.) However, when Italy was unified, in 1861, Italian existed mainly as a [[literary language]], and was spoken by less than three percent of the population. Different languages were spoken throughout the Italian peninsula, many of which were [[Romance language]]s which had developed in every region, due to political fragmentation of Italy. Each historical region of Italy had its own so-called ‘dialetto’ (with ‘[[Italian dialects|dialect]]’ usually meaning, improperly, a non-Italian Romance language), with variants existing at the township-level.
  
The official language of Italy is [[Italian language|Standard Italian]], descendant of [[Tuscan]] dialect and a direct descendant of [[Latin]]. (Some 75 percent of Italian words are of Latin origin.) However, when Italy was unified, in 1861, Italian existed mainly as a [[literary language]], and was spoken by less than 3 percent of the population. Different languages were spoken throughout the Italian peninsula, many of which were [[Romance language]]s which had developed in every region, due to political fragmentation of Italy. Each historical region of Italy had its own so-called ‘dialetto’ (with ‘[[Italian dialects|dialect]]’ usually meaning, improperly, a non-Italian Romance language), with variants existing at the township-level.  
+
Massimo d'Azeglio, one of [[Cavour]]'s ministers, is said to have stated, following Italian unification, that having created Italy, all that remained was to create Italians. Given the high number of languages spoken throughout the peninsula, it was quickly established that 'proper' or 'standard' [[Italian language|Italian]] would be based on the [[Tuscan dialect|Florentine dialect]] spoken in most of [[Tuscany]] (given that it was the first region to produce authors such as [[Dante Alighieri]], who between 1308 and 1321 wrote the ''Divina Commedia''). A national education system was established - leading to a decrease in variation in the languages spoken throughout the country over time. But it was not until the 1960s, when economic growth enabled widespread access to the television programs of the state television broadcaster, [[RAI]], that Italian truly became broadly-known and quite standardized.
  
 +
Today, despite regional variations in the form of accents and vowel emphasis, Italian is fully comprehensible to most throughout the country. Nevertheless certain dialects have become cherished beacons of regional variation—the [[Neopolitan]] [[dialect]] which is extensively used for the singing of popular [[folk-songs]], for instance, and in recent years many people have developed a particular pride in their dialects.
  
Massimo d'Azeglio, one of [[Cavour]]'s ministers, is said to have stated, following Italian unification, that having created Italy, all that remained was to create Italians. Given the high number of languages spoken throughout the peninsula, it was quickly established that 'proper' or 'standard' Italian would be based on the [[Tuscan dialect|Florentine dialect]] spoken in most of [[Tuscany]] (given that it was the first region to produce authors such as [[Dante Alighieri]], who between 1308 and 1321 wrote the ''Divina Commedia''). A national education system was established - leading to a decrease in variation in the languages spoken throughout the country over time. But it was not until the 1960s, when economic growth enabled widespread access to the television programs of the state television broadcaster, [[RAI]], that Italian truly became broadly-known and quite standardized.
+
In addition to the various regional variations and dialects of standard Italian, a number of separate languages are spoken.
 
 
Today, despite regional variations in the form of accents and vowel emphasis, Italian is fully comprehensible to most throughout the country. Nevertheless certain dialects have become cherished beacons of regional variation—the [[Neopolitan]] [[dialect]] which is extensively used for the singing of popular folk-songs, for instance, and in recent years many people have developed a particular pride in their dialects.
 
 
 
In addition to the various regional variations and dialects of standard Italian, a number of separate languages are spoken.
 
  
 
== Culture ==
 
== Culture ==
 
 
Italy, as a state, did not exist until the unification of the country came to a conclusion in 1861. Due to this comparatively late unification, and the historical autonomy of the many regions that comprise the [[Italian Peninsula]], many traditions and customs that we now recognize as distinctly Italian can be identified by their regions of origin, which further reflect the influence of the many different peoples that occupied those areas, and of the importance of religion, especially [[Roman Catholicism]]. Despite the pronounced political and social isolation of these regions that prevailed throughout Italy's history, Italy's contributions to the cultural and historical heritage of [[Europe]] and western civilization at large, remain immense.  
 
Italy, as a state, did not exist until the unification of the country came to a conclusion in 1861. Due to this comparatively late unification, and the historical autonomy of the many regions that comprise the [[Italian Peninsula]], many traditions and customs that we now recognize as distinctly Italian can be identified by their regions of origin, which further reflect the influence of the many different peoples that occupied those areas, and of the importance of religion, especially [[Roman Catholicism]]. Despite the pronounced political and social isolation of these regions that prevailed throughout Italy's history, Italy's contributions to the cultural and historical heritage of [[Europe]] and western civilization at large, remain immense.  
  
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===Art===
 
===Art===
 +
Italy has been a seminal place for many important [[art]]istic and intellectual movements that spread throughout Europe and beyond, including the [[Renaissance]] and [[Baroque]]. Perhaps Italy's greatest cultural achievements lie in its long artistic heritage, which is validated by the names of [[Michelangelo]], [[Leonardo da Vinci]], [[Donatello]], [[Botticelli]], [[Fra Angelico]], [[Tintoretto]], [[Caravaggio]], [[Bernini]], [[Titian]], and [[Raphael]], among many others.
  
Italy has been a seminal place for many important artistic and intellectual movements that spread throughout Europe and beyond, including the [[Renaissance]] and [[Baroque]]. Perhaps Italy's greatest cultural achievements lie in its long artistic heritage, which is validated by the names of [[Michelangelo]], [[Leonardo da Vinci]], [[Donatello]], [[Botticelli]], [[Fra Angelico]], [[Tintoretto]], [[Caravaggio]], [[Bernini]], [[Titian]] and [[Raphael]], among many others.
+
The history and development of art in western culture is grounded in hundreds of years of Italian history. [[Florence]], [[Venice]], and [[Rome]], in particular, are brimming with art treasures in [[museum]]s, [[church]]es, and public buildings.
 
 
The history and development of art in western culture is grounded in hundreds of years of Italian history. Florence, Venice and Rome, in particular, are brimming with art treasures in [[museum]]s, [[church]]es, and public buildings.
 
  
 
===Cuisine===
 
===Cuisine===
 
+
Italian cuisine is also popular worldwide. From delicious ''tiramisu'' [[ice cream]]s to [[Pasta|pasta]], [[Pastry|pastries]], and [[wine]]s, there are numerous regional specialties which run the full gamut of culinary experience. Italian cuisine has become universally loved; from the simple [[spaghetti]] dish or casual [[pizza]] to the sophisticated anti-pasta, and several course gourmet experiences. Italy produces legendary fine wines and it is customary to call on the expertise of the local restauranteur to pair a particular wine with the food being served the customer.
Italian cuisine is also popular worldwide. From delicious [[ice cream]]s to [[Pasta|pasta]], [[Pastry|pastries]] and [[wine]]s, travelers to Italy should plan and educate themselves beforehand on regional specialties which run the full gamut of culinary experience. Italian cuisine has become universally loved; from the simple [[spaghetti]] dish or casual [[pizza]] to the sophisticated anti-pasta, and several course gourmet experiences. Italy produces legendary fine wines and it is customary to call on the expertise of the local restauranteur to pair a particular wine with the food being served the customer.
 
  
 
===Fashion===
 
===Fashion===
 
+
Italy is one of the world centers of modern high fashion clothing and accessory design. Fashion houses such as [[Armani]], [[Benetton]], [[Fendi]], [[Gucci]], [[Versace]], and [[Prada]] have become household words. Many of Italy's top fashion designers have boutiques that can be found around the world. The popularity and influence of Italian-style fashion design also reaches into the area of interior design and furniture making.
Today, Italy is one of the world centers of modern high fashion clothing and accessory design. Fashion houses such as [[Armani]], [[Benetton]], [[Fendi]], [[Gucci]], [[Versace]] and [[Prada]] have become household words. Many of Italy's top fashion designers have boutiques that can be found around the world. The popularity and influence of Italian-style fashion design also reaches into the area of interior design and furniture making.
 
  
 
===Literature===
 
===Literature===
 
+
Beginning with the eminent [[Florentine]] [[Poetry|poet]], [[Dante Alighieri]], whose greatest work, the ''[[Divina Commedia]]'' is often considered the foremost literary statement produced in Europe during the [[Middle Ages]], there is no shortage of celebrated literary figures. The writers and poets [[Giovanni Boccaccio|Boccaccio]], [[Giacomo Leopardi]], [[Alessandro Manzoni]], [[Tasso]], [[Ludovico Ariosto]], and [[Francesco Petrarca|Petrarca]], are best known for their [[sonnet]]s. Prominent [[Philosophy|philosophers]] include [[Giordano Bruno|Bruno]], [[Ficino]], [[Machiavelli]], and [[Giambattista Vico|Vico]]. Modern literary figures and [[Nobel laureate]]s are nationalist poet [[Giosuè Carducci]] in 1906, realist writer [[Grazia Deledda]] in 1926, modern theater author [[Luigi Pirandello]] in 1936, poets [[Salvatore Quasimodo]] in 1959 and [[Eugenio Montale]] in 1975, and satirist and theater author [[Dario Fo]] in 1997.
Beginning with the eminent [[Florentine]] [[Poetry|poet]], [[Dante Alighieri]], whose greatest work, the [[Divina Commedia]] is often considered the foremost literary statement produced in Europe during the [[Middle Ages]], there is no shortage of celebrated literary figures. The writers and poets [[Giovanni Boccaccio|Boccaccio]], [[Giacomo Leopardi]], [[Alessandro Manzoni]], [[Tasso]], [[Ludovico Ariosto]], and [[Francesco Petrarca|Petrarca]], are best known for their [[sonnet]]s. Prominent [[Philosophy|philosophers]] include [[Giordano Bruno|Bruno]], [[Ficino]], [[Machiavelli]], and [[Giambattista Vico|Vico]]. Modern literary figures and [[Nobel laureate]]s are nationalist poet [[Giosuè Carducci]] in 1906, realist writer [[Grazia Deledda]] in 1926, modern theater author [[Luigi Pirandello]] in 1936, poets [[Salvatore Quasimodo]] in 1959 and [[Eugenio Montale]] in 1975, and satirist and theater author [[Dario Fo]] in 1997.
 
  
 
===Music===
 
===Music===
 
+
From [[folk]] to [[classical]], music has always played an important role in Italian culture. Having given birth to [[opera]], for example, Italy provides many of the very foundations of the classical music tradition. Some of the instruments that are often associated with classical music, including the [[piano]] and [[violin]], were invented in Italy, and many of the existing classical music forms can trace their roots back to innovations of sixteenth and seventeenth century Italian music (such as the [[symphony]], [[concerto]], and [[sonata]]). Some of Italy's most famous composers include the Renaissance composers [[Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina|Palestrina]] and [[Claudio Monteverdi|Monteverdi]], the Baroque composers [[Arcangelo Corelli|Corelli]] and [[Antonio Vivaldi|Vivaldi]], the Classical composers [[Niccolò Paganini|Paganini]] and [[Gioacchino Rossini|Rossini]], and the Romantic composers [[Giuseppe Verdi|Verdi]] and [[Giacomo Puccini|Puccini]]. Modern Italian composers such as [[Luciano Berio|Berio]] and [[Luigi Nono|Nono]] proved significant in the development of experimental and electronic music.
From [[folk]] to [[classical]], music has always played an important role in Italian culture. Having given birth to [[opera]], for example, Italy provides many of the very foundations of the classical music tradition. Some of the instruments that are often associated with classical music, including the [[piano]] and [[violin]], were invented in Italy, and many of the existing classical music forms can trace their roots back to innovations of 16th and 17th century Italian music (such as the [[symphony]], [[concerto]], and [[sonata]]). Some of Italy's most famous composers include the Renaissance composers [[Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina|Palestrina]] and [[Claudio Monteverdi|Monteverdi]], the Baroque composers [[Arcangelo Corelli|Corelli]] and [[Antonio Vivaldi|Vivaldi]], the Classical composers [[Niccolò Paganini|Paganini]] and [[Gioacchino Rossini|Rossini]], and the Romantic composers [[Giuseppe Verdi|Verdi]] and [[Giacomo Puccini|Puccini]]. Modern Italian composers such as [[Luciano Berio|Berio]] and [[Luigi Nono|Nono]] proved significant in the development of experimental and electronic music.
 
  
 
===Sports===
 
===Sports===
 
 
[[Soccer|Football]] ''([[Football in Italy|calcio]])'' is a popular spectator and participation sport. The [[Italian national football team|Italian national team]] has won the [[FIFA World Cup|World Cup]] four times (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006). Major Italian clubs frequently compete at a high level of [[UEFA|European competitions]]. [[Rugby]] union is very popular in Italy; clubs compete domestically in the [[Super 10 (Italian premiership)|Super 10]], as well as the European [[Heineken Cup]] tournament. [[Italy national rugby union team|The national team]] competes in the [[Six Nations Championship]], and is a regular at the [[Rugby World Cup]]. [[Basketball]] ''(pallacanestro)'' is a sport gaining rapid popularity in Italy, although national teams have existed since the 1950s. The nation's top pro league, Lega, is widely regarded as the third best national league in the world after the American [[NBA]] and Spain's [[Asociación de Clubs de Baloncesto|ACB]]. In some cities, (see [[Bologna]], [[Siena]], [[Pesaro]] or [[Varese]]) basketball is the most popular sport. [[Cycling]] is also a well represented sport in Italy. Italians are second only to [[Belgium]] in winning the most[[World Cycling Championship]]s. The [[Giro d'Italia]] is a world famous long distance bicycle race held every May and constitutes one of the three [[Grand Tour (cycling)|Grand Tours]] along with the [[Tour de France]] and the [[Vuelta a España]], each of which last approximately three weeks. [[Auto racing]] receives much attention in Italy, while the nation is host to a number of notable automobile racing events, such as the famed [[Italian Grand Prix]]. The Italian flair for design is legendary, and [[Ferrari]] has won more [[Formula One]]s than any other manufacturer.<ref>[http://www.f1-stats.de/en/makes/stats/wins.php Most Wins] ''F1-stats.de''. Retrieved August 9, 2007.</ref>
 
[[Soccer|Football]] ''([[Football in Italy|calcio]])'' is a popular spectator and participation sport. The [[Italian national football team|Italian national team]] has won the [[FIFA World Cup|World Cup]] four times (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006). Major Italian clubs frequently compete at a high level of [[UEFA|European competitions]]. [[Rugby]] union is very popular in Italy; clubs compete domestically in the [[Super 10 (Italian premiership)|Super 10]], as well as the European [[Heineken Cup]] tournament. [[Italy national rugby union team|The national team]] competes in the [[Six Nations Championship]], and is a regular at the [[Rugby World Cup]]. [[Basketball]] ''(pallacanestro)'' is a sport gaining rapid popularity in Italy, although national teams have existed since the 1950s. The nation's top pro league, Lega, is widely regarded as the third best national league in the world after the American [[NBA]] and Spain's [[Asociación de Clubs de Baloncesto|ACB]]. In some cities, (see [[Bologna]], [[Siena]], [[Pesaro]] or [[Varese]]) basketball is the most popular sport. [[Cycling]] is also a well represented sport in Italy. Italians are second only to [[Belgium]] in winning the most[[World Cycling Championship]]s. The [[Giro d'Italia]] is a world famous long distance bicycle race held every May and constitutes one of the three [[Grand Tour (cycling)|Grand Tours]] along with the [[Tour de France]] and the [[Vuelta a España]], each of which last approximately three weeks. [[Auto racing]] receives much attention in Italy, while the nation is host to a number of notable automobile racing events, such as the famed [[Italian Grand Prix]]. The Italian flair for design is legendary, and [[Ferrari]] has won more [[Formula One]]s than any other manufacturer.<ref>[http://www.f1-stats.de/en/makes/stats/wins.php Most Wins] ''F1-stats.de''. Retrieved August 9, 2007.</ref>
  
 
==Notes==
 
==Notes==
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
*Welch, Evelyn S. 1997. ''Art and Society in Italy, 1350-1500''. Oxford history of art. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0192842455
+
*Bonechi, Monica, and Giovannella Masini.''Rome and the Vatican: complete guide for visiting the city.'' Gold guides. Florence, Italy: Bonechi, 2001. ISBN 8847601363
*Holmes, George. 1997. ''The Oxford History of Italy''. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0198205279
+
*Coppa, Frank J., and William Roberts. ''Modern Italian History: An Annotated Bibliography.'' (Bibliographies and indexes in world history, no. 18) New York, NY: Greenwood Press, 1990. ISBN 0313248125  
*Coppa, Frank J., and William Roberts. 1990.'' Modern Italian History: An Annotated Bibliography''. Bibliographies and indexes in world history, no. 18. New York: Greenwood Press ISBN 0313248125  
+
*Euvino, Gabrielle. ''The Complete Idiot's Guide to Italian History and Culture.'' Indianapolis, IN: Alpha, 2002. ISBN 0028642341
*Euvino, Gabrielle, and Michael San Filippo. 2002. Euvino, Gabrielle, and Michael San Filippo. 2002. ''The Complete Idiot's Guide to Italian History and Culture''. Indianapolis, IN: Alpha.. Indianapolis, IN: Alpha. ISBN 0028642341
+
*Holmes, George. ''The Oxford History of Italy.'' Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 0198205279
*Os, H. W. van. 2006. ''Dreaming of Italy''. The Hague: Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis ISBN 9040082227
+
*Os, H. W. van. ''Dreaming of Italy.'' The Hague: Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis, 2006. ISBN 9040082227
*Bonechi, Monica, and Giovannella Masini. 2001. ''Rome and the Vatican: complete guide for visiting the city''. Gold guides. Florence, Italy: Bonechi. ISBN 8847601363
+
*Welch, Evelyn S. ''Art and Society in Italy, 1350-1500.'' (Oxford history of art.) Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 0192842455
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
{{sisterlinks|Italy}}
+
All links retrieved April 25, 2014.
 
 
  
===Travel===
+
*[http://www.italymag.co.uk/ Italy Magazine]  
*[http://www.italymag.co.uk/ Italy Magazine] ''Italymag.com''. Retrieved August 8, 2007.
+
*[http://www.lifeinitaly.com Life in Italy]
*[http://italy1.com/history/ History of Italy] ''Italy1.com.'' Retrieved August 8, 2007.
+
*[http://vlib.iue.it/hist-italy/Index.html Italian History Index]  
*[http://www.lifeinitaly.com Life in Italy]. ''Lifeinitaly.com.'' Retrieved August 2, 2007.
+
*[http://www.enit.it/ Italian Government Tourist Board]  
*[http://vlib.iue.it/hist-italy/Index.html Italian History Index] ''vlib.iue.it''. Retrieved August 9, 2007.
 
*[http://www.italiantourism.com/ Italian Government Tourist Board] ''Italiantourism.com''. Retrieved August 9, 2007.
 
  
 
{{credit|Italy|78079078|Venice|153007615}}
 
{{credit|Italy|78079078|Venice|153007615}}

Revision as of 15:37, 29 April 2014

Repubblica Italiana
Italian Republic
Flag of Italy Emblem of Italy
Anthem: Il Canto degli Italiani 
The Song of the Italians
Location of Italy
Capital
(and largest city)
Rome
41°54′N 12°29′E
Official languages Italian[1]
Demonym Italian
Government Unitary parliamentary republic
 -  President Giorgio Napolitano
 -  Prime Minister Mario Monti
Legislature Parliament
 -  Upper House Senate of the Republic
 -  Lower House Chamber of Deputies
Formation
 -  Unification 17 March 1861 
 -  Republic 2 June 1946 
EU accession 25 March 1957 (founding member)
Area
 -  Total 301,338 km² (71st)
116,346 sq mi 
 -  Water (%) 2.4
Population
 -  April 2011 estimate 60,681,514 [2] (23rd)
 -  2001 census 56,995,744 
 -  Density 201.2/km² (61st)
521.2/sq mi
GDP (PPP) 2011 estimate
 -  Total $1.828 trillion[3] (10th)
 -  Per capita $30,165[3] (30th)
GDP (nominal) 2011 estimate
 -  Total $2.245 trillion[3] (8th)
 -  Per capita $37,046[3] (24th)
Gini (2006) 32[4] 
Currency Euro (€)2 (EUR)
Time zone CET (UTC+1)
 -  Summer (DST) CEST (UTC+2)
Internet TLD .it3
Calling code [[+394]]
1 French is co-official in the Aosta Valley; Slovene is co-official in the province of Trieste and the province of Gorizia; German and Ladin are co-official in the province of South Tyrol.
2 Before 2002, the Italian Lira. The euro is accepted in Campione d'Italia, but the official currency there is the Swiss Franc.[5]
3 The .eu domain is also used, as it is shared with other European Union member states.
4 To call Campione d'Italia, it is necessary to use the Swiss code +41.

Italy (Italia), officially the Italian Republic, is a Southern European country with a population of approximately 60 million. It comprises the Po River valley, the Italian Peninsula and the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily and Sardinia. Called "il Belpaese" (beautiful country) by its inhabitants due to the variety of its landscapes and for having the world's largest artistic patrimony; Italy is home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any nation in the world.

The Italian Republic shares its northern alpine boundary with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. The country also shares a sea border with Croatia, Slovenia and France. The independent countries of San Marino and the Vatican City are enclaves within Italian territory. Also belonging to the republic is the commune of Campione d'Italia, an enclave in the territory of the Italian Switzerland. The Republic includes only the 92 percent of Italian physical region, delimited conventionally by the alpine watershed; besides the above-mentioned enclaves, the following territories do not belong to the country: the Principality of Monaco, Nice with Briga and Tenda, some strips of the Alps near the French border (Monginevro, Moncenisio and Piccolo San Bernardo), the Italian Switzerland (Canton Ticino and some valleys of Grigioni), the peninsula of Istria and a piece of Venezia Giulia, the island of Corsica and the archipelago of Malta.

Today, Italy is a highly developed country, a member of the G8 and a founding member of what is now the European Union, having signed the Treaty of Rome in 1957.

Italy was home to many well-known and influential European civilizations, including the Etruscans, Greeks and the Romans. For more than 3,000 years Italy experienced migrations and invasions from Germanic, Celtic, Frankish, Lombard, Byzantine Greek, Saracen, Norman, and Angevin peoples, and was divided into many independent states until 1861 when it became a nation-state.

Both the internal and external facets of Western Civilization were born on the Italian peninsula, whether one looks at the history of the Christian faith, philosophy, art, science or social customs and culture.

Geography

Satellite image of Italy.

Italy consists predominantly of a large peninsula (the Italian Peninsula) with a distinctive boot shape that extends into the Mediterranean Sea, where together with its two main islands Sicily and Sardinia it creates distinct bodies of water, such as the Adriatic Sea to the north-east, the Ionian Sea to the south-east, the Tyrrhenian Sea to the south-west and finally the Ligurian Sea to the north-west.

The Apennine mountains form the backbone of this peninsula, leading north-west to where they join the Alps, the mountain range that then forms an arc enclosing Italy from the north. A large alluvial plain called the Po-Venetian plain is drained by the Po River—which is Italy's biggest river with 652 km—and its many tributaries flowing down from the Alps.

Major rivers include the Tiber (Tevere) (405 km), Adige (410 km), Arno (241 km), Piave (220 km), Reno (212 km), Volturno (175 km), Tagliamento (170 km), Liri-Garigliano (158 km), Isonzo (136 km).

Its highest point is Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco) at 4,810 metres (15,781 feet)3. Italy is more typically associated with two famous volcanoes: the currently dormant Vesuvius near Naples and the very active Etna on Sicily.

Gondola on Grand Canal beside Rialto Bridge

The city of Venice, often called "the city of water," stretches across numerous small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea in the northeast section of the country. The city is world-famous for its canals. It is built on an archipelago of 122 islands formed by about 150 canals in a shallow lagoon. The islands on which the city is built are connected by about 400 bridges. In the old center, the canals serve the function of roads, and every form of transport is on water or on foot. In the 19th century a causeway to the mainland brought a railway station to Venice, and an automobile causeway and parking lot was added in the 20th century. Beyond these land entrances at the northern edge of the city, transportation within the city remains, as it was in centuries past, entirely on water or on foot. Venice is Europe's largest urban carfree area, unique in Europe in remaining a sizable functioning city in the 21st century entirely without motorcars or trucks.

Climate

The Italian climate is unique in each region. The north of Italy (Turin, Milan, and Bologna) has a true continental climate, while below Florence it becomes more and more Mediterranean.

Stream on Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Italy and Europe.

The climate of the coastal areas of the Peninsula is very different from that of the interior, particularly during the winter months. The higher areas are cold, wet, and often snowy. The coastal regions, where most of the large towns are located, have a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot and generally dry summers. The length and intensity of the summer dry season increases southwards (compare the tables for Rome, Naples, and Brindisi).

Italy is subject to highly diverse weather conditions in autumn, winter, and spring, while summer is usually more stable.

The least number of rainy days and the highest number of hours of sunshine occur in the extreme south of the mainland and in Sicily and Sardinia. Here sunshine averages from four to five hours a day in winter and up to ten or eleven hours in summer.

In the north the precipitation is quite well distributed during the year. Between November and March the Po valley is often covered by fog, above all the central zone (Pavia, Cremona, and Mantua). Snow is quite common between early December and mid-February in cities like Turin, Milan and Bologna.

History

The word Italy derives from the Homeric (Aeolic) word ιταλός, which means bull. Excavations throughout Italy have found proof of people in Italy dating back to the Paleolithic period (the "Old Stone Age") some 200,000 years ago. The first Greek settlers, who arrived in Italy from Euboea island in the eighth century B.C.E., were possibly the first to use the reference land of bulls.

Italy has influenced the cultural and social development of the whole Mediterranean area, deeply influencing European culture as well. As a result it has also influenced other important cultures. Such cultures and civilizations have existed there since prehistoric times. After Magna Graecia, the Etruscan civilization and especially the Roman Republic and Empire that dominated this part of the world for many centuries, Italy was central to European science and art during the Renaissance.

The Roman Coliseum, perhaps the most enduring symbol of Italy.

Serving as the center of the Roman civilization for centuries, Italy lost its unity after the collapse of the Roman Empire and subsequent barbaric invasions. Briefly reunited under Byzantium (552), Italy was occupied by the Longobards in 568, resulting in the peninsula becoming seriously divided. For centuries the country was the prey of different populations, resulting in its ultimate decline. Most of the population fled from cities to take refuge in the countryside under the protection of powerful feudal lords. After the Longobards came the Franks (774). Italy became part of the Holy Roman Empire, later to become the Holy Roman Germanic Empire. Pippin the Short created the first nucleus of the State of the Vatican, which later became a strong countervailing force against any unification of the country.

Population and economy started to pick up slowly after 1000, with the resurgence of cities, trade, arts and literature. During the later Middle Ages the fragmentation of the peninsula, especially in the northern and central parts of the country, continued, while the southern part, with Naples, Apulia and Sicily, remained a single dominion. Venice created a powerful commercial empire in the Eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea.

The Black Death (1348) inflicted a terrible blow to Italy, resulting in one third of the population being killed by the disease. The recovery from this disaster led to a new resurgence of cities, trade and economy which greatly stimulated the successive phase of Humanism and the Renaissance (XV-XVI) when Italy again returned as the center of Western civilization, exerting strong influence on the other European countries.

Domination by other countries

After a century where the fragmented system of Italian states and principalities were able to maintain a relative independence and a balance of power in the peninsula, the French king Charles VIII in 1494 opened the first of a series of invasions, that lasted half of the sixteenth century, and created a competition between France and Spain for the possession of the country. Ultimately Spain prevailed (the Treaty of Cateau-Cambresis in 1559 recognized the Spanish possession of the Kingdom of Naples) and for almost two centuries became the hegemon in Italy. The alliance between reactionary Catholic Spain and the Holy See resulted in the systematic persecution of any Protestant movement, with the result that Italy remained a Catholic country with marginal Protestant presence. The Spanish domination and the control of the Church resulted in intellectual stagnation and economic decadence, also attributable to the shifting of the main commercial routes from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean.

Austria succeeded Spain as hegemon in Italy after the Peace of Utrecht (1713), having acquired the State of Milan and the Kingdom of Naples. The Austrian domination, thanks also to the Illuminism embraced by Habsburg emperors, was a considerable improvement upon the Spanish one. The northern part of Italy, under the direct control of Vienna recovered its economic dynamism and intellectual fervor.

The French Revolution and the Napoleonic War (1796-1851) introduced the modern ideas of equality, democracy, law and nation. The peninsula was not a main battle field as in the past but Napoleon completely changed its political map by destroying the Republic of Venice in 1799, which never recovered its independence. The states founded by Napoleon, with the support of minority groups of Italian patriots, were short-lived and did not survive the defeat of the French Emperor in 1815.

The Restoration saw all the pre-Revolution states restored with the exception of the Republic of Venice (previously under Austrian control) and the Republic of Genoa (under Savoy domination). Napoleon rule give birth to the first national movement for unity and independence. Albeit formed by small groups with almost no contact with the masses, the Italian patriots and liberals staged several uprisings in the decades up to 1860. Giuseppe Mazzini and Giuseppe Garibaldi created the most economic reform for the impoverished masses. From 1848 onwards the Italian patriots were openly supported by Vittorio Emanuele II, the king of Sardinia, who put his arms in the Italian tricolor dedicating the House of Savoy to Italian unity.

Unification

The unification of Italy was declared on March 17, 1861, after a successful war (the Second War of Independence) against Austria with the support of France, and after Giuseppe Garibaldi organized an invasion of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies (Naples and Sicily) in 1860. Vittorio Emanuele II became the first king of the united Italy.

The national territory was enlarged to Veneto and Venice in 1866 after the third War of Independence, fought by allied Italy and Prussia against Austria. Rome itself remained for a little less than a decade under the Papacy thanks to French protection, and became part of the Kingdom of Italy on September 20, 1870, after Italian troops stormed the city.

The first unified state was plagued by a gruesome rebellion of the Southern populations opposed to the new domination, by economic stagnation, misery, illiteracy and a weak national consciousness. Italian was spoken by a small part of the population while the rest spoke local dialects.

In 1878 Umberto I succeeded his father Vittorio Emanuele II as King of Italy. He was killed by an anarchist in 1900 and succeeded by his son Vittorio Emanuele III.

Industrialization and modernization, at least in the northern part of the country, started in the last part of the nineteenth century under a protectionist regime. The south, meanwhile, stagnated under overpopulation and underdevelopment, forcing millions of people to search for employment and better conditions abroad. This lasted until 1970. It is calculated that more than 26 million Italians migrated to France, Germany, Switzerland, United States, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia.

Democracy

Democracy made its first appearance at the beginning of the twentieth century. The 1848 Constitution provided for basic freedoms but the electoral laws excluded the disposed and the uneducated from voting. It wasn't until 1913 that male universal suffrage was allowed. The Socialist Party became the main political party, replacing the traditional liberal and conservative organizations. The path to a modern liberal democracy was interrupted by the tragedy of the World War I (1914-1918), which Italy fought along with France and Great Britain. Italy was able to beat the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in November 1918. It obtained Trento and Trieste and a few territories on the Dalmatian coast. (Zara) was considered a great power, but the population had to pay a heavy price. The war produced more than 600,000 dead, inflation and unemployment, economic and political instability, which in the end allowed the fascist movement to reach power in 1922 with the tacit support of King Vittorio Emanuele III, who feared civil war and revolution.

Mussolini

The fascist dictatorship of Benito Mussolini lasted from 1922 to 1943 but in the first years Mussolini maintained the appearance of a liberal democracy. After rigged elections in 1924 gave Fascism and its conservative allies an absolute majority in the Parliament, Mussolini canceled all democratic liberties in January 1925. He then proceeded to establish a totalitarian state. Political parties were banned, independent trade unions were closed. The only permitted party was the National Fascist Party. A secret police (OVRA) and a system of quasi-legal repression (Tribunale Speciale) ensured the total control of the regime upon the Italians who, while in the majority, either resigned themselves to or welcomed the dictatorship, many considering it a last resort to stop the spread of communism. While relatively benign in comparison to Nazi Germany or Stalinist Russia, several thousand people were incarcerated or exiled for their opposition and many were killed by fascist thugs (Carlo Rosselli) or died in prison (Antonio Gramsci). Mussolini tried to spread his authoritarian ideology to other European countries and dictators such as Salazar in Portugal, General Francisco Franco in Spain and Hitler in Germany. Conservative, democratic leaders in Great Britain and United States were favorable to Mussolini in the early years of his governance.

In 1929 Mussolini formed a pact with the Holy See, resulting in the rebirth of an independent state of the Vatican for the Catholic Church in the heart of Rome. In 1935 he declared war on Ethiopian it was subjugated in few months. This resulted in the alienation of Italy from its traditional allies, France and Great Britain, and its nearing to Nazi Germany. A pact with Germany was concluded in 1936 and then another in 1938 (the Iron Pact). Italy supported Franco's revolution and Hitler's advances in central Europe, accepting the annexation of Austria to Germany in 1938, even though the disappearance of a buffer state between mighty Germany and Italy was unfavorable for the country. In October 1938 Mussolini managed to avoid the eruption of another war in Europe, bringing together Great Britain, France and Germany at Czechoslovakia's expense.

In April 1939 Italy occupied Albania, a de-facto protectorate for decades, but in September 1939, after the invasion of Poland, Mussolini decided not to intervene on Germany's side, due to the poor preparation of the Italian armed forces. Italy entered the war in June 1940 when France was almost defeated. Mussolini hoped for a quick victory but Italy suffered from the very beginning from the poor training of its army and the lack of experience of its generals. Italy invaded Greece in October 1940 via Albania but after a few days was forced to withdraw. After conquering British Somalia in 1940, a counter-attack by the Allies led to the loss of the whole Italian empire in the Horn of Africa. Italy was also defeated in Northern Africa and saved only by the German armed forces led by Rommel.

After several defeats, Italy was invaded in May 1943. In July 1943, King Vittorio Emanuele III staged a coup d'etat against Mussolini, having him arrested. In September 1943 Italy surrendered. It was immediately invaded by Germany and for nearly two years the country was divided and became a battlefield. The Nazi-occupied part of the country, where a puppet fascist state under Mussolini was reconstituted, was the theater for a savage civil war between freedom fighters ("partigiani") and Nazi and fascist troops. The country was liberated by a national uprising on April 25, 1945 (the Liberazione).

Republic

Agitation against the king ran high in the north where leftist and communist armed partisans wanted to depose him. Vittorio Emanuele gave up the throne to his son Umberto II who again faced the possibility of civil war. Italy became a Republic after a popular referendum held on June 2, 1946, a day now celebrated as Republic Day. The republic won with a 9 percent margin; the north of Italy voted prevalently for a republic, the south for the monarchy. The Republican Constitution was approved and went into effect on January 1, 1948. It included a provisional measure banning all male members of the house of Savoy from Italy. This stipulation was redressed in 2002.

Since then Italy has experienced a strong economic growth, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, which lifted the country to the position of being one of the most industrialized nations in the world, albeit with perennial political instability. The Christian Democratic Party and its liberal and social democratic allies ruled Italy without interruption from 1948 until 1994, marginalizing the main opposition party, the Italian Communist Party, until the end of the cold war.

In 1992-1994 a series of scandals (nicknamed "Tangentopoli") and the ensuing Mani pulite investigation destroyed the post-war political system. New parties and coalitions emerged: on the right, Forza Italia of the media-mogul Silvio Berlusconi became the main successor of the Christian Democrat party. On the left the Democratici di Sinistra (Democrats of the Left) became the moderate successors of the Communist Party, while the most liberal and progressive Catholic politicians became a part of La Margherita (the Daisy). In 1994 Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia and its allies (National Alliance and the Northern League) won the elections but the government collapsed after only a few months because the Northern League split out. A technical government cabinet led by Lamberto Dini, supported by the left-wing parties and the Northern League, lasted until Romano Prodi's new center-left coalition won the 1996 general election. In 2001 the center-right took the government and Berlusconi was able to remain in power for five years. The 2006 elections returned Prodi with a slim majority.

Italy is a founding member of the European Community, European Union and NATO.

Government and Politics

The Quirinal Palace, house of the President of the Republic.
File:Presidente Napolitano.jpg
Giorgio Napolitano, President of the Italian Republic elected on May 10, 2006.

The 1948 Constitution of Italy established a bicameral parliament (Parlamento), consisting of a Chamber of Deputies (Camera dei Deputati) and a Senate (Senato della Repubblica), a separate judiciary, and an executive branch composed of a Council of Ministers (cabinet) (Consiglio dei ministri), headed by the prime minister (Presidente del consiglio dei ministri).

The President of the Republic (Presidente della Repubblica) is elected for seven years by the parliament sitting jointly with a small number of regional delegates. The president nominates the prime minister, who proposes the other ministers (formally named by the president). The Council of Ministers must retain the support (fiducia) of both houses.

Silvio Berlusconi, from May 8, 2008 to his resignation on November 12, 2011, was Prime Minister, leading a center-right coalition. Italy's four major political parties are the People of Freedom, the Democratic Party, the Northern League and the Italy of Values. During the 2008 general elections these four parties won 590 out of 630 seats available in the Chamber of Deputies and 308 out of 315 seats available in the Senate of the Republic. Most of the remaining seats were won by minor parties that only contest election in one part of Italy, like the South Tyrolean People's Party and the Movement for Autonomies. However, more recently the "Third Pole" emerged, merging the Christian Democrats of UDC with some dissident members of Mr. Berlusconi's cabinet.

The houses of parliament are popularly and directly elected through a complex electoral system (latest amendment in 2005) which combines proportional representation with a majority prize for the largest coalition (Chamber). The electoral system in the Senate is based upon regional representation. The Chamber of Deputies has 630 members, the Senate 315 elected senators; in addition, the Senate includes former presidents and other persons (no more than five) appointed senators for life by the President of the Republic according to special constitutional provisions. As of May 15, 2006, there are seven life senators (of which three are former Presidents). Both houses are elected for a maximum of five years, but both may be dissolved by the President of the Republic before the expiration of their normal term if the Parliament is unable to elect a stable government. In post-war history, it happened in 1972, 1976, 1979, 1983, 1994 and 1996.

A peculiarity of the Italian Parliament is the representation given to Italians permanently living abroad (more than two million). Among the 630 Deputies and the 315 Senators there are respectively 12 and 6 elected in four distinct foreign constituencies. Those members of Parliament were elected for the first time in April 2006 and they enjoy the same rights as members elected in Italy. In addition, the Italian Senate also has a small number of senators for life, appointed by the President of the Italian Republic "for outstanding patriotic merits in the social, scientific, artistic or literary field." Former Presidents of the Republic are ex officio life senators.

Legislative bills may originate in either house and must be passed by a majority in both. The Italian judicial system is based on Roman law modified by the Napoleonic code and later statutes. A constitutional court, the Corte Costituzionale, passes on the constitutionality of laws, and is a post-World War II innovation.

All Italian citizens older than 18 can vote. However, to vote for the senate, the voter must be at least 25 or older.

Administrative divisions

Administrative divisions.

Italy is subdivided into 20 regions (regioni, singular regione). Five of these regions enjoy a special autonomous status that enables them to enact legislation on some of their specific local matters, and are marked by an *:

  1. Abruzzo (with capital L'Aquila)
  2. Basilicata (Potenza)
  3. Calabria (Catanzaro)
  4. Campania (Naples, Napoli)
  5. Emilia-Romagna (Bologna)
  6. Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Trieste)
  7. Latium, Lazio (Rome, Roma)
  8. Liguria (Genoa, Genova)
  9. Lombardy, Lombardia (Milan, Milano)
  10. Marches, Marche (Ancona)
  11. Molise (Campobasso)
  12. Piedmont, Piemonte (Turin, Torino)
  13. Apulia, Puglia (Bari)
  14. Sardinia, Sardegna (Cagliari)
  15. Aosta Valley, Valle d'Aosta / Vallée d'Aoste (Aosta, Aoste)
  16. Tuscany, Toscana (Florence, Firenze)
  17. Trentino-South Tyrol, Trentino-Alto Adige / Trentino-Südtirol (Trento, Bolzano-Bozen)
  18. Umbria (Perugia)
  19. Sicily, Sicilia (Palermo)
  20. Veneto (Venice, Venezia)

All regions except the Aosta Valley are further subdivided into two or more provinces.

Economy

According to GDP calculations, as measured by purchasing power parity (PPP), Italy was ranked was the 8th largest economy in the world in 2006, behind the United States, Japan, Germany, China, India, UK, and France, and was the fourth largest in Europe. According to the OECD, in 2004 Italy was the world's sixth-largest exporter of manufactured goods. This [capitalism|capitalistic]] economy remains divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and a less developed agricultural south. Italy's economy has deceptive strength because it is supported by a substantial “underground” economy that functions outside government controls.

Most new materials needed by industry and more than 75 percent of energy requirements are imported. Over the past decade, Italy has pursued a tight fiscal policy in order to meet the requirements of the Economic and Monetary Union and has benefited from lower interest and inflation rates. Italy joined the Euro from its conception in 1999.

Italy's economic performance has at times lagged behind that of its EU partners, and the current government has enacted numerous short-term reforms aimed at improving competitiveness and long-term growth. It has moved slowly, however, on implementing certain structural reforms favored by economists, such as lightening the high tax burden and overhauling Italy's rigid labor market and expensive pension system, because of the current economic slowdown and opposition from labor unions.

Italy has been less successful in terms of developing world class multinational corporations. Instead, the country's main economic strength has been its large base of small and medium size companies. These companies typically manufacture products that are moderately advanced technologically and therefore increasingly face crushing competition from China and other emerging Asian economies. Meanwhile, a base of corporations able to compete in markets for advanced goods and services is underdeveloped or lacking entirely. It is not obvious how Italy will overcome this significant structural weakness in the short run, and Italy has therefore been referred to as the new "sick man of Europe."[6]

Science and technology

The contributions of revered Italian visionaries such as Galileo Galilei and Leonardo da Vinci made considerable advancements toward the scientific revolution. Other notable Italian scientists and inventors include Fermi, Cassini, Volta, Lagrange, Fibonacci, Marconi, and Meucci.

The Italians love of automobiles and speed has made Italy famous for its production of many of the world's most famous sports cars and the industry that flourishes there. Some of the world's most elite vehicles were developed in Italy: Lamborghini, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Masarati are but a few of the well-known luxury cars that originated in Italy.

Demographics

Ethnicity

Italy is largely homogeneous in language and religion but is diverse culturally, economically, and politically. The country has the fifth-highest population density in Europe at 193 persons per square kilometre (499/sq. mi). However, like Germany, Italy's main population centers on major cities like Turin, Rome, Milan, and Naples, but with no single large city to rival the size of cities such as London, Paris or Moscow. As with many other nations in Europe, Italy is currently facing a natural population decline, supplemented only by immigration. Italy receives roughly 300,000 immigrants a year, second only to the United States.[7] Population estimates place Italy's population at roughly 41 million in 2050 if the current population trend continues.[8]

The number of modern immigrants or foreign residents in Italy has steadily increased to reach 2,402,157, according to the 2005 figures of ISTAT. They currently make up a little more than 4 percent of the official total population. The majority of immigrants in Italy come from other surrounding European nations, and they number 1,122,276, coming chiefly from Albania, Romania, the Ukraine, and Poland. French nationals living in Italy, according to ISTAT figures, are more commonly women than men. The next largest group consists of North African Arab groups, and they number some 447,310 chiefly from Morocco, and Tunisia. Smaller groups consists of Asians, South Americans, and sub-Saharan Africans.

The top five largest foreign minorities are Albanian (316,659), Moroccan (294,945), Romanian (248,8491), Chinese (111,712), and Ukrainian (93,441).

Religion

Roman Catholicism is by far the largest religion in the country. Although the Roman Catholic Church has been separated from the state, it still plays a role in the nation's political affairs partly due to Holy See's location in Vatican City, within Rome itself. Some 98 percent of Italians are Roman Catholic of which one-third are active members.[9] Other Christian groups in Italy include Jehovah's Witnesses 400,000[10] and the Waldensians (35,000).

In the past two decades, Italy has received several waves of immigrants and as a result, some 825,000[11]Muslims (1.4 percent) live in Italy, although other estimates indicate that there are up to one million Muslims[12] as well as, 75,000 Hindus,[13] 60,000 Buddhists, and a historical community of 30,000 Jewish members.

Languages

The official language of Italy is Standard Italian, descendant of Tuscan dialect and a direct descendant of Latin. (Some 75 percent of Italian words are of Latin origin.) However, when Italy was unified, in 1861, Italian existed mainly as a literary language, and was spoken by less than three percent of the population. Different languages were spoken throughout the Italian peninsula, many of which were Romance languages which had developed in every region, due to political fragmentation of Italy. Each historical region of Italy had its own so-called ‘dialetto’ (with ‘dialect’ usually meaning, improperly, a non-Italian Romance language), with variants existing at the township-level.

Massimo d'Azeglio, one of Cavour's ministers, is said to have stated, following Italian unification, that having created Italy, all that remained was to create Italians. Given the high number of languages spoken throughout the peninsula, it was quickly established that 'proper' or 'standard' Italian would be based on the Florentine dialect spoken in most of Tuscany (given that it was the first region to produce authors such as Dante Alighieri, who between 1308 and 1321 wrote the Divina Commedia). A national education system was established - leading to a decrease in variation in the languages spoken throughout the country over time. But it was not until the 1960s, when economic growth enabled widespread access to the television programs of the state television broadcaster, RAI, that Italian truly became broadly-known and quite standardized.

Today, despite regional variations in the form of accents and vowel emphasis, Italian is fully comprehensible to most throughout the country. Nevertheless certain dialects have become cherished beacons of regional variation—the Neopolitan dialect which is extensively used for the singing of popular folk-songs, for instance, and in recent years many people have developed a particular pride in their dialects.

In addition to the various regional variations and dialects of standard Italian, a number of separate languages are spoken.

Culture

Italy, as a state, did not exist until the unification of the country came to a conclusion in 1861. Due to this comparatively late unification, and the historical autonomy of the many regions that comprise the Italian Peninsula, many traditions and customs that we now recognize as distinctly Italian can be identified by their regions of origin, which further reflect the influence of the many different peoples that occupied those areas, and of the importance of religion, especially Roman Catholicism. Despite the pronounced political and social isolation of these regions that prevailed throughout Italy's history, Italy's contributions to the cultural and historical heritage of Europe and western civilization at large, remain immense.

Architecture

Teatro alla Scala, Milan.

Architectural ruins from antiquity throughout Italy testify to the greatness of cultures past. Italy's great treasures are seen by visitors from all over the world today. The history of architecture in Italy is one that begins with the ancient styles of the Etruscans and Greeks, progressing to classical Roman, then to the revival of the classical Roman era during the Renaissance and evolving into the Baroque era. During the period of the Italian Renaissance it had been customary for students of architecture to travel to Rome to study the ancient ruins and buildings as an essential part of their education. Three of the greatest architects of the Renaissance period are Brunelleschi, Alberti, and Palladia.

Today the unmistakable contributions of the ancient and classical architecture forms from this region of the world are everywhere evident in public buildings throughout the world. Classic Greco-Roman columns and domes have been used in the building of capitols and government buildings worldwide.

Art

Italy has been a seminal place for many important artistic and intellectual movements that spread throughout Europe and beyond, including the Renaissance and Baroque. Perhaps Italy's greatest cultural achievements lie in its long artistic heritage, which is validated by the names of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello, Botticelli, Fra Angelico, Tintoretto, Caravaggio, Bernini, Titian, and Raphael, among many others.

The history and development of art in western culture is grounded in hundreds of years of Italian history. Florence, Venice, and Rome, in particular, are brimming with art treasures in museums, churches, and public buildings.

Cuisine

Italian cuisine is also popular worldwide. From delicious tiramisu ice creams to pasta, pastries, and wines, there are numerous regional specialties which run the full gamut of culinary experience. Italian cuisine has become universally loved; from the simple spaghetti dish or casual pizza to the sophisticated anti-pasta, and several course gourmet experiences. Italy produces legendary fine wines and it is customary to call on the expertise of the local restauranteur to pair a particular wine with the food being served the customer.

Fashion

Italy is one of the world centers of modern high fashion clothing and accessory design. Fashion houses such as Armani, Benetton, Fendi, Gucci, Versace, and Prada have become household words. Many of Italy's top fashion designers have boutiques that can be found around the world. The popularity and influence of Italian-style fashion design also reaches into the area of interior design and furniture making.

Literature

Beginning with the eminent Florentine poet, Dante Alighieri, whose greatest work, the Divina Commedia is often considered the foremost literary statement produced in Europe during the Middle Ages, there is no shortage of celebrated literary figures. The writers and poets Boccaccio, Giacomo Leopardi, Alessandro Manzoni, Tasso, Ludovico Ariosto, and Petrarca, are best known for their sonnets. Prominent philosophers include Bruno, Ficino, Machiavelli, and Vico. Modern literary figures and Nobel laureates are nationalist poet Giosuè Carducci in 1906, realist writer Grazia Deledda in 1926, modern theater author Luigi Pirandello in 1936, poets Salvatore Quasimodo in 1959 and Eugenio Montale in 1975, and satirist and theater author Dario Fo in 1997.

Music

From folk to classical, music has always played an important role in Italian culture. Having given birth to opera, for example, Italy provides many of the very foundations of the classical music tradition. Some of the instruments that are often associated with classical music, including the piano and violin, were invented in Italy, and many of the existing classical music forms can trace their roots back to innovations of sixteenth and seventeenth century Italian music (such as the symphony, concerto, and sonata). Some of Italy's most famous composers include the Renaissance composers Palestrina and Monteverdi, the Baroque composers Corelli and Vivaldi, the Classical composers Paganini and Rossini, and the Romantic composers Verdi and Puccini. Modern Italian composers such as Berio and Nono proved significant in the development of experimental and electronic music.

Sports

Football (calcio) is a popular spectator and participation sport. The Italian national team has won the World Cup four times (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006). Major Italian clubs frequently compete at a high level of European competitions. Rugby union is very popular in Italy; clubs compete domestically in the Super 10, as well as the European Heineken Cup tournament. The national team competes in the Six Nations Championship, and is a regular at the Rugby World Cup. Basketball (pallacanestro) is a sport gaining rapid popularity in Italy, although national teams have existed since the 1950s. The nation's top pro league, Lega, is widely regarded as the third best national league in the world after the American NBA and Spain's ACB. In some cities, (see Bologna, Siena, Pesaro or Varese) basketball is the most popular sport. Cycling is also a well represented sport in Italy. Italians are second only to Belgium in winning the mostWorld Cycling Championships. The Giro d'Italia is a world famous long distance bicycle race held every May and constitutes one of the three Grand Tours along with the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España, each of which last approximately three weeks. Auto racing receives much attention in Italy, while the nation is host to a number of notable automobile racing events, such as the famed Italian Grand Prix. The Italian flair for design is legendary, and Ferrari has won more Formula Ones than any other manufacturer.[14]

Notes

  1. Languages of Italy. Ethnologue. Retrieved December 14, 2011.
  2. Monthly demographic balance: January 2011 (in Italian). Istat (10 September 2011). Retrieved September 10, 2011.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 Italy. International Monetary Fund. Retrieved December 14, 2011.
  4. Distribution of family income – Gini index. CIA – The World Factbook. Retrieved December 14, 2011.
  5. Comune di Campione d'Italia. Comune.campione-d-italia.co.it (14 July 2010). Retrieved December 14, 2011.
  6. Peter Gumbel, Nov. 27, 2005. Twilight In Italy TIME.com. Retrieved August 10, 2007.
  7. Immigration fails to stem European population loss Guardian Unlimited, August 17, 2006. Retrieved August 8, 2007.
  8. Anne Swandson, "Young Europeans, Going Mobile," Washington Post, March 15, 2000. "Replacement Migration: Is It A Solution To Declining And Aging Populations?" online EU: Demography, Immigration Migration News, 6 (2) (April 2000) Retrieved August 8, 2007.
  9. The World Fact Book: People - Italy CIA.gov Retrieved August 8, 2007.
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References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Bonechi, Monica, and Giovannella Masini.Rome and the Vatican: complete guide for visiting the city. Gold guides. Florence, Italy: Bonechi, 2001. ISBN 8847601363
  • Coppa, Frank J., and William Roberts. Modern Italian History: An Annotated Bibliography. (Bibliographies and indexes in world history, no. 18) New York, NY: Greenwood Press, 1990. ISBN 0313248125
  • Euvino, Gabrielle. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Italian History and Culture. Indianapolis, IN: Alpha, 2002. ISBN 0028642341
  • Holmes, George. The Oxford History of Italy. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 0198205279
  • Os, H. W. van. Dreaming of Italy. The Hague: Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis, 2006. ISBN 9040082227
  • Welch, Evelyn S. Art and Society in Italy, 1350-1500. (Oxford history of art.) Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 0192842455

External links

All links retrieved April 25, 2014.

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