il manifesto: A History of Italy's Independent Leftist Daily
In the landscape of Italian journalism, few publications possess the distinct voice and political resilience of il manifesto. Founded during a period of intense intellectual ferment, this publication has evolved from a niche monthly review into a daily newspaper known for its sharp wit, unwavering leftist convictions, and a fierce commitment to editorial independence.
Founding and Political Evolution
The publication began its journey in 1969 as a monthly review. It was established by a group of left-wing journalists—including Luigi Pintor, Valentino Parlato, Lucio Magri, and Rossana Rossanda—who were deeply immersed in the wave of critical thought sweeping the Italian left at the time. By April 1971, the publication transitioned into a daily newspaper to better capture the rapid pace of political change.
The early 1970s were marked by a blurring of lines between journalism and active politics. In 1972, the publication participated in elections as a separate political party, though it secured only 0.67% of the vote. This led to a merger in July 1974 with the Proletarian Unity Party to form the "PdUP per il Comunismo".
This merger sparked a period of internal conflict. One faction sought to transform the newspaper into the official press organ of the new party, while another fought to safeguard its independence. By 1978, the proponents of autonomy emerged victorious; the leadership largely distanced itself from the PdUP, and the newspaper fully regained its independence.
Editorial Identity and Cultural Impact
While il manifesto remained critical of the Italian Communist Party (PCI), it found a loyal readership among PCI supporters who preferred its lively and independent tone over that of l'Unità, the official party organ. When the PCI dissolved in 1991 to form the social-democratic Democratic Party of the Left, il manifesto did not follow this shift toward the center. Instead, it maintained positions aligned with more radical left-wing entities, such as the Communist Refoundation Party, while remaining an independent voice.
The newspaper is celebrated in Italy for its distinctive style, characterized by sarcastic headlines, clever puns, and a provocative choice of photography. A notable example occurred during the election of Pope Benedict XVI, when the front page featured a large photo of the Pope with the headline "the German Shepherd"—a pun on the Italian word for pastor.
Beyond politics, the publication has attracted some of Italy's most eminent literary and artistic figures. Contributors have included the satirical poet Stefano Benni, novelist Erri De Luca, and the renowned philosopher and linguist Umberto Eco. The paper has also featured the satirical illustrations of Vauro Senesi.
Leadership of the daily has been held by key figures over the decades, with Valentino Parlato serving as editor-in-chief during various periods in the 1970s and 2000s, and Norma Rangeri serving as director from 2010 to 2023.
Conflict and Controversy
The newspaper's political stance has occasionally made it a target of violence. On December 21, 2000, its Rome office was targeted in a bomb attack by Andrea Insabato, a neo-fascist with ties to Terza Posizione and the Nuclei Armati Rivoluzionari. The bomb detonated prematurely, leaving Insabato as the sole casualty.
The publication also faced a high-profile crisis in February 2005 when reporter Giuliana Sgrena was kidnapped by Iraqi insurgents. Following her release on March 4, 2005, a major controversy erupted. During the rescue operation, American troops opened fire on her vehicle, resulting in the death of an Italian security agent.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1969 as a monthly; became a daily in April 1971.
- Founders: Luigi Pintor, Valentino Parlato, Lucio Magri, and Rossana Rossanda.
- Political Stance: Independent left-wing; historically critical of the PCI but aligned with more radical left positions.
- Notable Contributors: Umberto Eco, Stefano Benni, Erri De Luca, and Vauro Senesi.
- Key Directors: Valentino Parlato and Norma Rangeri (2010–2023).
| Year/Period | Event/Milestone | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1969 | Foundation | Launched as a monthly review. |
| 1971 | Format Change | Transitioned to a daily newspaper. |
| 1972 | Political Election | Won 0.67% of the vote as a party. |
| 1974 | PdUP Merger | Formed "PdUP per il Comunismo". |
| 1978 | Autonomy Regained | Separated from PdUP to ensure independence. |
| 1991 | PCI Dissolution | Maintained left-wing independence. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded il manifesto?
The newspaper was founded in 1969 by a group of left-wing journalists, specifically Luigi Pintor, Valentino Parlato, Lucio Magri, and Rossana Rossanda.
How does il manifesto differ from other leftist papers?
It is known for its independence from official party organs, its use of sarcasm and puns in headlines, and its refusal to move toward social democracy following the dissolution of the Italian Communist Party.
What was the "German Shepherd" headline?
It was a pun on the Italian word for pastor, used as a sarcastic headline accompanying a photo of Pope Benedict XVI on the day of his election.
What happened during the Giuliana Sgrena incident?
Reporter Giuliana Sgrena was kidnapped by Iraqi insurgents in 2005. Her rescue led to a controversy when American troops fired upon her vehicle, killing an Italian security agent.
Has the newspaper ever been the target of violence?
Yes, in December 2000, a neo-fascist named Andrea Insabato attempted to bomb the newspaper's Rome office, though he was the only casualty due to a premature detonation.