Fathers of the Lega: Populist Regionalism and Populist Nationalism in Historical Perspective

This book explores the historical roots of the Italian Republic's oldest surviving political party, the populist far-right Lega (Nord), tracing its origins to post-war Italy. It examines two main case studies of post-war populist regionalism, the Movements for Regional Autonomy (MRAs), and the Bergamascan Movement for Autonomy (MAB), and their influence on the Lega Nord. By blending concepts and theories from historical sociology and political science, the book offers a nuanced examination of the continuities and discontinuities between the MRAs and the Lega from the 1950s to the present.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate historical roots of the oldest surviving political party in the Italian Republic, the populist far-right Lega (Nord). Tracing its origins back to post-war Italy, the author embarks on a profound exploration, examining two key case studies: the Movements for Regional Autonomy (MRAs), particularly the Piedmontese Movement for Regional Autonomy (the MARP) and the Bergamascan Movement for Autonomy (the MAB). These movements, which emerged as a vibrant wave of post-war populist regionalism from 1955 to 1960, played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the time.

However, it is the regionalist leagues that later emerged in both Piedmont and Lombardy in the 1980s, eventually forming part of the Lega Nord, that warrant special attention. These leagues represented a revival of the populist regionalist discourse and ideology, marking a second wave of post-war populist regionalism. Despite their significance, both the MRAs and the twenty-year gap between these waves of activism have remained relatively overlooked in the scholarly discourse.

To address this gap, the book employs an innovative approach, blending concepts and theories from historical sociology and political science. It offers a nuanced examination of the continuities and discontinuities between the MRAs and the Lega from the 1950s until the time of publication. This insightful contribution not only enriches our understanding of contemporary Italian history but also sheds light on the broader themes of populism and the far right.

With its interdisciplinarity, this book appeals to students and researchers across a wide range of subject areas, including European history, modern history, and political history. It provides a rich tapestry of insights that will captivate readers and inspire further exploration into the complex dynamics of Italian politics and society.

Weight: 750g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032285658