The Audacious Republic of Fiume: A Forgotten Precursor to Fascism
The story of Fiume – modern-day Rijeka, Croatia – is a interesting, frequently enough overlooked chapter of 20th-century European history. It’s a tale of nationalistic fervor, audacious power grabs, and a surprising connection to the rise of Benito Mussolini and Italian Fascism. This review delves into the compelling documentary, Fiume o Morte!, and unpacks the complex legacy of this short-lived “city-state.”
A City Caught in the Crosscurrents
In 1918, Fiume was a vibrant port city with a significant Italian population. formerly under Habsburg rule, its fate became intensely contested after World War I. Despite expectations, the victorious Allied powers didn’t incorporate fiume into Italy. instead, it fell under the control of the newly formed Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia).
This decision ignited outrage among Italian nationalists, who viewed it as a betrayal. consequently, a charismatic, yet deeply flawed, figure emerged to challenge the status quo.
D’annunzio’s Bizarre Insurgency
Gabriele D’Annunzio, an Italian aristocrat, poet, and notorious cocaine addict, seized the moment. Leading a force of 186 mercenaries – dubbed “legionaries” – he orchestrated a daring, almost theatrical, takeover of Fiume in September 1919.
D’Annunzio established a self-proclaimed Italian Regency of Carnaro, effectively ruling Fiume as his personal fiefdom. He attracted a following of disillusioned veterans and unemployed men, promising a new, romantic vision for Italy.
Spectacle and Suppression
D’Annunzio’s reign was characterized by elaborate public displays – mass marches and grand spectacles designed to project an image of widespread popular support. Though, this facade concealed a darker reality.
When plebiscites revealed that the city’s non-Italian majority opposed his rule, the results were simply disregarded. Moreover, a violent incident involving a Croatian attack on an Italian ship provided a pretext for brutal attacks on non-Italian businesses, foreshadowing the horrors of Kristallnacht.
The Seeds of Fascism
You might be surprised to learn that the young Benito Mussolini was a fervent admirer of D’Annunzio. He closely observed the techniques used in Fiume to cultivate a cult of personality and mobilize support.
Notably, Mussolini adopted D’Annunzio’s followers’ stirring anthem, Giovinezza (Youth), as the official anthem of his Fascist movement. The documentary Fiume o Morte! meticulously details these connections, highlighting the crucial role D’Annunzio played in shaping the ideology and aesthetics of Italian Fascism.
Fiume o Morte!: A unique Documentary Approach
Director Goran Bezinović employs a clever and engaging technique in Fiume o Morte!. He enlists local Rijeka residents to portray D’Annunzio in a series of playful, tableau-style recreations of historical photos and footage.
This approach isn’t merely stylistic; it subtly prompts reflection. Bezinović seems to ask: can any nation claim immunity from the allure of nationalism or the dangers of fascism? One participant, a veteran of the Croatian War of Independence, underscores this point with poignant resonance.
Why This Story matters Today
The story of Fiume serves as a potent reminder of the fragility of peace and the enduring appeal of extremist ideologies. It demonstrates how easily nationalistic fervor can be manipulated and how quickly democratic principles can be eroded.
Fiume o Morte! isn’t just a historical documentary; it’s a timely and relevant exploration of the forces that continue to shape our world.
Where to See It: Fiume o Morte! is currently playing at the ICA in London and will be released in UK cinemas on November 28th.
Key Takeaways:
* Fiume’s story reveals a crucial, frequently enough-overlooked precursor to Italian Fascism.
* Gabriele D’Annunzio’s audacious seizure of power demonstrated the power of spectacle and propaganda.
* The documentary *Fiume o Morte!
