The Carbonari

The Carbonari (1800-1831) was an informal network of secret revolutionary societies active in Italy. Other revolutionary parties in France, Portugal, Spain, Brazil, Uruguay, and Russia may have been influenced by the Italian Carbonari. Although their objectives were frequently patriotic and liberal, they lacked a distinct immediate political agenda. They served as a focal point for those dissatisfied with the restrictive political system in Italy after 1815, particularly in the south of the Italian Peninsula. Members of the Carbonari and others influenced by them were involved in key events in the process of Italian unification (known as the Risorgimento), particularly the failed Revolution of 1820, and in the future growth of Italian nationalism. The main goal was to overthrow tyranny and establish a constitutional government. Other organizations, such as the Adelfia and the Filadelfia, were allied organizations in northern Italy.

The Carbonari, like other secret societies of the time, featured an initiation rite, complicated symbols, and a hierarchical organization. They led the victorious Neapolitan revolution of 1820 with the support of the troops, forcing King Ferdinand I to pledge a constitution. This was their most stunning achievement, but it was quickly undone by Austrian involvement. In 1831, revolts in Bologna, Parma, and Modena were largely unsuccessful. The Carbonari's prominence began to fade the same year that Giuseppe Mazzini launched a new movement, Young Italy, with an avowedly national and republican purpose.

Founded: 1800
Dissolved: 1831

Location: Italy

Purpose: Italian unification
Founder: Gabriele Pasquale Giuseppe Rossetti