Notizie.it editorial team Alberto Franceschini, known for being one of the founders of the Red Brigades, died on April 11 at the age of 78. The news of his death was made public only today, causing mixed reactions in the Italian political and social landscape. Franceschini, together with Renato Curcio and Mara Cagol, played a crucial role in the history of political terrorism in Italy during the 70s.
A controversial past
Franceschini was convicted of several crimes, including the kidnapping of judge Mario Sossi and the murder of two members of the Italian Social Movement (MSI) in Padua in 1974. These events marked an era of violence and ideological conflict in Italy, with the Red Brigades seeking to subvert the democratic order through extreme acts. His figure has often been at the center of heated debates, with some considering him a symbol of political struggle, while others see him as a terrorist.
The historical context of the Red Brigades
The Red Brigades emerged during a period of great social and political turmoil in Italy, characterized by tensions between different ideologies. Founded in 1970, these organizations sought to bring about radical change through violence. The kidnapping of Sossi, an event that shocked public opinion, represented a point of no return for the group, leading to a series of police operations and an intensification of the crackdown on terrorism.
Reactions to his death
Franceschini's death has reopened the debate on that dark period in Italian history. Many commentators have expressed contrasting opinions, with some praising his political commitment and others condemning his violent actions. His figure continues to arouse strong emotions, reflecting the divisions still present in Italian society regarding terrorism and armed struggle. His legacy remains complex and controversial, a symbol of an era in which ideologies clashed violently.