biennio rosso

Italian history

Also known as: two red years

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July 16, 2026

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The "Biennio Rosso" (Red Biennium) refers to a period of intense social and political unrest in Italy from 1919 to 1920, following World War I. This era was characterized by widespread strikes, factory occupations, and land seizures by peasants, largely driven by socialist and anarchist movements inspired by the Russian Revolution.

Workers demanded better wages and conditions, while agricultural laborers sought land reform. This radicalization of the working class and peasantry created widespread fear among the propertied classes and industrialists. In response to the perceived threat of socialist revolution, right-wing nationalist groups, including the nascent Fascist Party led by Benito Mussolini, gained traction. The violence and instability of the Biennio Rosso ultimately contributed to the rise of Fascism in Italy.1

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Italy
Economic and political crisis: the two red years
Throughout the biennio rosso (“two red years”; 1919–20), revolution appeared imminent. While spontaneous land occupations swept through the south, riots and lootings hit shopkeepers in the north and center in the summer of 1919, and prices were cut by half throughout the country. Socialist deputies walked out…
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Throughout the biennio rosso (“two red years”; 1919–20), revolution appeared imminent. While spontaneous land occupations swept through the south, riots and lootings hit shopkeepers in the north and center in the summer of 1919, and prices were cut by half throughout the country. Socialist deputies walked out…
Read More