Umberto II di Savoia, often referred to as the “Re di Maggio” or “May King,” was the last King of Italy. Born on September 15, 1904, at the Royal Castle of Racconigi in Italy, Umberto’s life was shaped by the tumultuous events of the 20th century, including the rise and fall of Fascism in Italy, World War II, and the transition of Italy from a monarchy to a republic. This article explores the life and legacy of Umberto II, examining his upbringing, his brief reign, and his lasting impact on Italian history.
Early Life and Education
Umberto II was born into the House of Savoy, one of the oldest royal dynasties in Europe. His father was King Vittorio Emanuele III of Italy, and his mother was Elena of Montenegro. Being the only male heir, Umberto was groomed from a young age to inherit the Italian throne. His upbringing was characterized by a strict military education, which was typical for European royalty at the time, aimed at preparing him for a role in both leadership and defense.
In addition to his military training, Umberto pursued academic studies and earned a degree in law. His education was not merely a formality; it was a comprehensive preparation for his anticipated future as king. The early 20th century was a period of great political and social upheaval in Europe, and Umberto’s training was designed to instill a sense of duty, discipline, and readiness to face the challenges of his era.
Marriage and Military Career
In 1930, Umberto married Maria José of Belgium, a union that was both a romantic and political alliance. The marriage produced four children: Maria Pia, Vittorio Emanuele, Maria Gabriella, and Maria Beatrice. While Umberto’s family life seemed picture-perfect, the realities of European politics soon intruded.
By the mid-1930s, Europe was on the brink of World War II. In 1936, Umberto achieved the rank of General in the Italian army, marking the peak of his military career. Four years later, he was reluctantly appointed commander of the army group on Italy’s western front. This position placed him in direct opposition to France and the United Kingdom, alongside Nazi Germany—a decision made by Benito Mussolini that was not supported by the House of Savoy.
Opposition to Fascism and the Fall of Mussolini
Umberto II’s relationship with Mussolini’s Fascist regime was fraught with tension. Both he and his wife, Maria José, were known for their growing disapproval of Mussolini and his alliance with Adolf Hitler. This dissent placed them at odds with the Fascist government, and Mussolini worked to marginalize Umberto by promoting the Duke of Aosta, a member of a collateral branch of the House of Savoy, as a potential successor to the throne.
The collapse of the Fascist regime began in earnest with Italy’s military failures in World War II. On July 24, 1943, the Grand Council of Fascism voted to remove Mussolini from power. The following day, King Vittorio Emanuele III ordered Mussolini’s arrest and appointed Marshal Pietro Badoglio as the head of the government, effectively ending the Fascist rule. On September 8, 1943, Italy signed an armistice with the Allies, marking a turning point in the war and signaling a shift in Italy’s allegiance.
With the downfall of Fascism, the Italian monarchy’s reputation was severely damaged due to its previous association with Mussolini. To salvage the monarchy, Vittorio Emanuele III decided to step back from his royal duties, appointing Umberto as Lieutenant General of the Realm on June 5, 1944. This role was intended as a temporary measure to stabilize the monarchy and prepare for a potential future without it.
Ascension to the Throne and the End of the Monarchy
On May 9, 1946, Vittorio Emanuele III formally abdicated in favor of his son, making Umberto the King of Italy. However, his reign would be one of the shortest in history, lasting just 34 days. This brevity earned him the nickname “Re di Maggio,” or “May King.” During his short reign, Umberto II attempted to modernize the monarchy and presented himself as a democratic monarch who would accept the will of the people.
Umberto’s time on the throne coincided with a crucial moment in Italian history. On June 2, 1946, a referendum was held to decide whether Italy would remain a monarchy or become a republic. The vote was a pivotal event, reflecting widespread discontent with the monarchy due to its association with the Fascist regime. The referendum resulted in a narrow victory for the republic, with the official results declaring the end of the monarchy and the establishment of the Italian Republic.
Exile and Life in Portugal
Following the declaration of the republic, Umberto II left Italy for exile in Cascais, near Lisbon, Portugal. He was allowed to leave the country peacefully to avoid any potential civil unrest. The former king adopted the title of Count of Sarre and lived a relatively private life in exile. His departure marked the end of the House of Savoy’s rule over Italy, which had lasted for over a century.
In exile, Umberto’s life was marked by personal and political challenges. His relationship with Maria José deteriorated, leading to a de facto separation. While Maria José moved to Switzerland with their son Vittorio Emanuele, Umberto remained in Portugal with their daughters. The separation underscored the strain that years of political turmoil had placed on their marriage.
Despite the separation from his wife and the distance from his homeland, Umberto remained engaged with Italian politics from afar. He continued to claim his right to the throne and hoped for a restoration of the monarchy. However, the Italian government prohibited him from returning to Italy, a ban that remained in place until his death.
Legacy and Impact on Italian History
Umberto II’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. His brief reign as king, often overshadowed by the political turmoil of his time, nonetheless represents a significant chapter in Italian history. As the last King of Italy, Umberto’s reign marked the transition from a monarchy to a republic, a transformation that reflected broader shifts in Italian society and politics following World War II.
Umberto’s decision to accept the results of the 1946 referendum and leave Italy peacefully helped to prevent further civil strife at a time when the country was already deeply divided. His acceptance of the republic’s establishment, albeit reluctant, facilitated a smoother transition and allowed Italy to move forward as a unified state.
Despite living in exile for the remainder of his life, Umberto II maintained a dignified presence, adhering to the principles of his royal upbringing. His dedication to the House of Savoy’s legacy was evident in his decision to donate the Holy Shroud of Turin, a significant relic held by his family for centuries, to the Vatican. This act was seen as a final gesture of goodwill and religious devotion.
Umberto II passed away on March 18, 1983, in Geneva, Switzerland, at the age of 78, after a prolonged battle with cancer. In his will, he also donated the extensive historical archives of the House of Savoy to the Italian state, ensuring that future generations could study and reflect on the contributions and challenges of the monarchy in Italy’s history.
The House of Savoy Today
The House of Savoy, although no longer ruling, continues to be a topic of interest and debate in Italy. Discussions about its role in history, from the unification of Italy to the end of the monarchy, remain relevant to understanding Italy’s national identity and heritage. The current pretender to the defunct throne, Vittorio Emanuele, maintains the family’s presence in European aristocratic circles, although his influence is largely ceremonial.
The legacy of Umberto II and the House of Savoy is intertwined with Italy’s journey through monarchy, fascism, and democracy. Umberto’s life and reign provide a lens through which to explore broader themes of governance, legitimacy, and national identity, particularly in the context of Italy’s turbulent 20th-century history.
As Italy continues to reflect on its past and the path that led it from monarchy to republic, Umberto II remains a figure of both historical significance and intrigue. His story is a reminder of the complexities of leadership during times of national crisis and the enduring impact of those who hold power, even for a brief moment.
