Did the Italian Fascists Use the S.P.Q.R. Motto?
Often confused as a motto, the abbreviation SPQR is a Sigil and an acronym standing for Senatus Populusque Romanus, meaning "The Senate and the Roman People" in Latin. This term has deep historical roots, often appearing on Roman and Italian symbols and monuments. While the Fascist Party did not primarily rely on SPQR, they used several other mottos to promote their ideology.
The Significance of SPQR in Italian History
SPQR has a long-standing tradition in Italian and Roman symbolism. It is famously seen on the Pecora Fountain in Rome, one of the city's most picturesque monuments. The term is also prominently featured in the Italian coat of arms and on official documents and seals, reflecting the ancient Roman influence on Italian culture and governance.
Although the expression SPQR has been adopted by many as a symbol of historical nostalgia and cultural identity, it is important to note that it does not represent a coherent political philosophy, unlike the slogans used by the Italian Fascists.
Mottos Used by the Italian Fascists
While the Fascist Party took great care to construct a distinct and powerful image, they did not rely heavily on the use of traditional Latin phrases such as SPQR. Instead, they developed their own set of slogans, often grounded in nationalist and renewal rhetoric.
Dio causa patria, meaning "God, Cause, Country," was one of the main mottos used during the Fascist regime. This motto encapsulates the core values of the movement, emphasizing divine and national duty. The strong sense of faith and patriotism within this phrase is a hallmark of the Fascist ideology.
Another significant slogan was Virtù superiore all'odio, which translates to "Pride Higher than Hate." This phrase emphatically rejected the spirit of division and conflict that characterized some of the preceding governments and movements.
The Role of Propaganda in Shaping Image
The Fascists understood the power of language and symbolism in shaping political identities. While SPQR was an important part of Roman and Italian heritage, it was not enough to justify the actions or ideologies of the Fascist regime. The regime employed numerous other symbols and phrases to convey their message of Fascismo (Fascism).
Fascismo Operaio e Fascismo Feltre (Fascismo for Workers and Fascismo for Francia) are other mottos that were utilized but do not rely on the traditional Latin term. These slogans, when used alongside SPQR, served to emphasize the Fascists' claims of continuity with Roman traditions while also promoting a renewed Italian identity.
Conclusion
Therefore, while SPQR is a meaningful term with a rich history, it was not a central slogan used by the Italian Fascists. The Fascist Party developed a unique set of mottos that were more reflective of their political and nationalist goals, emphasizing pride, reputation, and unity. These mottos, alongside the traditional symbol of SPQR, helped to shape the image of the Fascist movement during the early 20th century.
Understanding the nuanced use of these terms can provide insight into the complex political landscape of Italy during this transformative period.