Italy marks 80 years of Republic: Referendum, women's vote, new lira
Banca d'Italia's Paolo Baffi Library commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic, reviewing key historical moments. The review covers the institutional referendum, the extension of voting rights to women, and the issuance of new banknotes and coins.
The Republic's Founding Vote
On June 2, 1946, Italy celebrated the 80th anniversary of its Republic.
The Paolo Baffi Library's collection traces the pivotal transition from monarchy to a republican state.
The institutional referendum, mandated by legislative decree no. 98 of March 16, 1946, asked citizens to choose between a Republic or Monarchy, coinciding with elections for the Constituent Assembly.
King Umberto II, on the eve of the vote, pledged a second public consultation if the Monarchy were reaffirmed.
Voter turnout was high, between 75 and 90 percent.
Initial results on June 6 indicated a preference for the Republic.
The Supreme Court of Cassation officially proclaimed the final outcome on June 20, 1946, with 12,717,923 votes for the Republic and 10,719,284 for the Monarchy.
Women at the Ballot, New Lira Emerges
The 1946 referendum was historic for women, who voted for the first time following a February 1945 decree.
This enabled their participation in municipal elections and eligibility for the Constituent Assembly, electing 21 women.
The new Republic also introduced its own currency.
The first 1,000 lire banknote, the 'Rinaldo Barbetti' type, signed by Governor Luigi Einaudi, was issued on July 12, 1946, reusing modified older designs.
Metallic coins (1, 2, 5, and 10 lire 'Italma' types) were authorized on September 6, 1946, inscribed 'Repubblica italiana'.
A Nation's Defining Moments
The library's review offers a vital historical lens into Italy's foundational shift to a republic.
These events underscore the profound democratic transformation and the central bank's role in establishing national symbols.
The documents serve as a crucial reminder of the nation's journey and its enduring democratic values.
Source: Paolo Baffi Library Newsletter, No. 9
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