Bastille Day & Festa della Repubblica France vs. Italy Bastille Day & Festa della Repubblica

Comparisons Bastille Day Festa della Repubblica Origins Traditions Marks beginning of French Revolution Third Estate larger than Second and First Estate. Decapitation of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette Monarchy of Italy becomes republic and exiles House of Savoy by votes. Right after WWII and fall of Fascism Official in June 2, 1946 Traditions Military Parade Meals are spent with families Fireworks are popular, like 4th of July Laying of laurel wreath in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Concerts performed by bands of different branches of the Italian army Symbols French flag Phrygian cap Guillotine Italian flag Laurel wreath Emblem of Italy

Significance of Independence When we think of independence, we think of the United States, but we forget other countries as well. In this case, Bastille Day is the national holiday of France, which represents the beginning of the French Revolution. Whereas, the Festa della Repubblica is the exile of the monarchy and the beginning of the republic of Italy, all done in voting instead of years of bloodshed.

Similarities When it comes to celebrating, the French and Italians can agree in one thing, a military parade and the remembrance of days that changed their countries forever. They also demonstrate love and proudness at holding their national banners. But we can’t never forget that they were most likely getting rid of oppressive monarchies and only wanted the best for each citizen in their countries.

Differences There are many differences between France and Italy, especially in what they believe. In this case, France fought for its rights for each individual, years of fear and terror, each street reeking with blood. For Italy, the citizens voted for the government to change seeing that they didn’t do much during WWII and after the fall of Fascism. I guess another key difference would be their symbols, as the French tend to have a more deathly significance, such as the guillotine, but the Italians are respectful when they put a wreath.