Revolution in Naples + Sicily

1820-1821

1820

NaplesCausesKing Ferdinand greatly increased censorship to books newspapers + magazines which meant that freedom of speech was becoming almost impossible. King Ferdinand was also becoming short of money at the time therefore he cut public spending, halted works on roads and other projects and reduced further what education was available to the people. This led to poverty, corrupt government and restrictions becoming general. Revolutions in Spain at the time also encourage the Carbonari to take action.

EventsA group of Carbonari members led by a priest and supported by 100 soldiers, advanced on the town of Avellino. Attempts by the government to round up the troops were half hearted, mainly after one of the commanding officers General Guglielmo Pepe joined the rebel army. Ferdinand then promised to meet the rebel demands. The rebels wanted a constitution like in Spain which would give vote to all males, reduce the kings power + abolish many Nobel privileges. At first it looked like a success, a new government was appointed, Pepe was put in charge of the army and Carbonari gained recruits.

SicilyCausesAnother revolt had begun at the same time in Sicily. People in Sicily wanted independence as they believed that King Ferdinand did not commit enough of his time to their needs. Agricultural prices had fallen sharply and many of the peasants were falling into debt.

EventsAs a result of this riots in the capital Palermo happened. There were demands for constitution, government offices were burnt, prisoners released and the governor was sent home by boat as the city was taken over.

OutcomeThe newly elected parliament had its first meeting in October 1820 with its members being mainly middle class citizens e.g. lawyers and bankers etc. the members discussed events in Sicily and decided that the island must not be granted independence. The Austrian chancellor, Metternich was disturbed that the Naples revolution had been so successful and felt that the revolutions threatened to disrupt peace in neighbouring states. He argued that the great powers of Russia, Austria, Prussia should have a right to intervene. In 1821 king Ferdinand was invited to a meeting with Austria. Ferdinand claimed that he had no choice in allowing the constitution and asked Austria to help restore his rule. Metternich was more than happy and despite resistance from general Pepe Naples was restored to Ferdinand. Order was also soon restored in Sicily and Naples retained control over the island