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The Disbandment of Ordine Nuovo: A Turning Point in Italian Fascism

The Fall of Ordine Nuovo

Ordine Nuovo's Role in Italian Fascism

Ordine Nuovo (New Order) was established in 1969 as a far-right neo-fascist organization in Italy. Its goal was to promote a revival of Fascist values and ideologies in a post-WWII Italy. Throughout the 1970s, Ordine Nuovo gained notoriety for its violent tactics and willingness to collaborate with extremist groups, promoting the idea of a militarized, authoritarian state.

Political Context Leading to Disbandment

By the early 1970s, Italy was experiencing significant social unrest, which was partly fueled by neo-fascist groups like Ordine Nuovo. The government, facing pressure from the left and a growing concern about domestic terrorism, began cracking down on these extremist movements. This harsh political climate set the stage for the eventual disbandment of Ordine Nuovo.

Aftermath of the Disbandment

The Impact of Disbanding Ordine Nuovo

The official disbandment of Ordine Nuovo in 1973 marked a significant blow to the neo-fascist movement in Italy. This action curtailed its operations and forced many of its members underground. The disbanding signaled a turning point, shifting the landscape for extreme right organizations in Italy and indicating a societal rejection of fascism.

Legacy of Ordine Nuovo’s Disbandment

Even after its disbandment, the ideology of Ordine Nuovo did not vanish. Various splinter groups continued to espouse its ultra-nationalist, anti-communist beliefs, leading to continuous concerns about violent extremism in the country. The legacy that Ordine Nuovo left behind still resonates within contemporary discussions about far-right movements in Europe.

Fun Fact

Ordine Nuovo’s Infamy

One of the most infamous acts linked to Ordine Nuovo was the 1970 Piazza Fontana bombing, which resulted in multiple casualties and was seen as a major example of the violent tactics they employed to instill fear and advance their political agenda.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Ordine Nuovo

To explore more about the history of Ordine Nuovo and its impact on Italian society, consider these titles: "The Anatomy of Fascism" by Robert O. Paxton and "Fascism, Anti-Fascism and the Politics of Memory" by R. M. P. Mooney.