Giolitti essay plan lol Flashcards
(25 cards)
intro: to what extent was Giolitti successful in responding to the problems facing his government (1911–14)?
He had some early successes (Libyan War, 1913 election pact), but reforms had unintended negative consequences that worsened divisions and undermined national unity.
Why were the Socialists a challenge to Giolitti’s government?
The PSI was growing in influence, and Giolitti needed their support, but the party was split between moderates and radical Maximalists who opposed liberal rule.
How did Giolitti try to win over the Socialists?
Through trasformismo and social reforms, e.g., arbitration courts (1906) and a maternity fund (1910). He won support from moderates like Turati and Bissolati.
How did some Socialists react to the Libyan War initially?
Some moderates, like Bissolati, supported it, believing it would help Italian peasants.
Why did Giolitti ultimately fail to win over the Socialists?
The Libyan War caused a backlash; radicals took control of the PSI, expelled moderates, and condemned the government as corrupt and capitalist.
What happened to Socialist support after the 1912 franchise reform?
Despite hopes to weaken PSI influence, it gained 79 deputies in 1913 (up 4% from 1909), led by the radical Lazzari.
What was the Gentiloni Pact?
1913 electoral pact with Count Gentiloni, president of Catholic Electoral Union.
How did the Gentiloni Pact 1913 affect Giolitti’s support from Socialists?
It alienated moderate Socialists and anti-clerical liberals, who withdrew support in 1914, leading to Giolitti’s resignation.
link: What was the overall outcome of Giolitti’s approach to the Socialists?
Initially successful with moderates, but the Libyan War and election pact destroyed cooperation with the PSI.
Why was the Catholic Church a problem for Giolitti?
It refused to officially recognise the Italian state, yet he needed its support to counteract Socialists
How did Giolitti improve relations with the Catholic Church?
He dropped the divorce bill in 1904 and benefited from Catholic voter support in 1909 (pope encourage to vote in 150 constituencies) and 1913.
In what areas did Catholics and liberals cooperate locally?
In cities like Turin, Florence, and Venice.
Why did the Church support the Libyan War?
Financial interest via the Bank of Rome, which invested in Tripoli.
What did Giolitti refuse to do regarding the Catholic Church?
He refused to fully resolve the Roman Question or give major concessions, prioritising Socialist support.
What was the impact of the Gentiloni Pact revelation after the 1913 election and what was it?
Revelation that 228/318 liberal deputies owed victory to Catholic support.
It caused a backlash from Socialists and anti-clericals, losing Giolitti vital political support.
How did Catholics react to Giolitti’s resignation?
They were furious, believing he could have led a pro-Catholic government.
link: How successful was Giolitti with the Catholic Church overall?
He gained support through pragmatic deals, but dependence on the Church alienated other key groups.
Why were Nationalists a challenge for Giolitti?
They wanted a strong, imperialist Italy and rejected compromise with the liberal regime.
How did Giolitti try to win nationalist support?
By invading Libya in 1911 to promote empire and national pride.
Why did the Libyan War backfire for Giolitti?
Nationalists claimed credit for pushing him into war and criticised liberal conduct for high casualties.
Libyan casualties and cost of war.
1.3 billion lira
3,500 killed in fighting
What was the role of the ANI (Italian Nationalist Association)?
Refused to work with Giolitti and undermined him with growing public support, especially from the middle classes.
Why did Giolitti’s reforms fail to reduce nationalist support?
Nationalists offered a stronger patriotic appeal, while reforms appeared to appease Socialists.
link: What was the overall outcome of Giolitti’s approach to the Nationalists?
His strategy failed; Libya strengthened Nationalist support and weakened the Liberal regime.
