The Kingdom of the Two Sicilies 1734-1861

Autor*innen

• Louis Mendola

Parameter

• 500 Seiten
• 18 Lesestunden

• Historisches Thema

Mehr zum Buch

This work represents the first comprehensive study in English of the political and social history of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, which thrived under five Bourbon kings from 1734 until its annexation by unified Italy in 1861. Formed in 1816, the Two Sicilies united Naples and Sicily, becoming the largest and most prosperous of the pre-unitary Italian states. At its peak in 1860, it had a treasury surpassing all other Italian states combined and housed Europe's largest royal palace in Caserta. The kingdom was the most industrialized in Italy, introducing the first railroad, public pension plan, unemployment benefits, and recycling system. Its cultural contributions, including spaghetti, pizza, and early chocolate recipes, have significantly shaped perceptions of Italian culture. This volume offers a true narrative of a semi-forgotten kingdom, appealing to Italophiles, travelers, historians, researchers, and descendants of the region. It highlights the unique Mediterranean identity of southern Italy, focusing on Naples and Palermo, while challenging common stereotypes. The book includes a timeline, photographs, maps, genealogical tables, and informative appendices, drawing from original sources like royal decrees and eyewitness accounts. It presents the story of the Two Sicilies as an epic narrative integral to the identity and culture of its people.

• Sprache: Englisch
• Erscheinungsdatum: 2020
• Einband: Paperback