Rimini Proclamation facts for kids
The Rimini Proclamation was an important message shared on March 30, 1815. It was written by Joachim Murat, who was the king of Naples at the time. Napoleon I had made him king.
Murat had just started a war against Austria, called the Neapolitan War. He used this proclamation to ask Italians to rise up against the Austrian forces who were controlling their lands. He wanted to show himself as a supporter of Italian freedom. Murat hoped this would help him find allies in his tough fight to keep his throne.
The proclamation began with a powerful message:
Italians! The hour has come to engage in your highest destiny.
This message even impressed Alessandro Manzoni, a famous writer. He started writing a poem about it called Il proclama di Rimini later that year. However, he did not finish the poem because Murat's military plans did not succeed.
Contents
What Was the Rimini Proclamation?
The Rimini Proclamation was a public statement. King Joachim Murat issued it during a difficult time. He was trying to hold onto his power. He hoped to gain support from the Italian people.
Why Did King Murat Issue It?
King Murat had a big problem. He was fighting against Austria. He needed help to win this war. He thought that if he supported Italian independence, people would join him. This was a clever way to try and get allies. He wanted Italians to fight for their own freedom.
Murat's Goal: Keeping His Throne
Murat's main goal was to keep his position as king. He knew his rule was in danger. By calling for Italian independence, he hoped to make people see him as a hero. He wanted them to fight alongside him against the Austrians. This was a desperate move to save his kingdom.
Impact of the Proclamation
The Rimini Proclamation was a big deal for many people. It showed a king supporting Italian freedom. This idea was very new and exciting for many Italians.
Alessandro Manzoni's Poem
The proclamation deeply affected Alessandro Manzoni. He was a well-known Italian writer. He started writing a poem about the proclamation. This shows how important and inspiring the message was. However, Murat's war efforts failed. Because of this, Manzoni left his poem unfinished.
More About the Proclamation
- You can read the full text of the proclamation on Italian Wikisource.
