Garibaldi was born in Nice, the son of a fisherman. He pursued a career in the Mediterranean merchant navy while harbouring an intense patriotism for Italy. He  became involved in the Italian National Movement and emerged as the foremost military figure and popular hero of Italian Reunification. After being sentenced to death Garibaldi fled, taking his leadership skills abroad, fighting revolutionary battles in  France and Latin America. Famous for his republican endeavours Garibaldi was welcomed in New York, where he lived for a short time.  He then came to England where he was rapturously welcomed by Londoners to the rhyme:

              We'll get a rope

              And hang the Pope:

             So up with Garibaldi 

He was received by English society, with the exception of the Royal Family, and became engaged to a Mrs Emma Roberts. Garibaldi visited Bedford, specifically to see the Iron Works as he was interested in the agricultural machinery being produced there. Returning to Italy, Garibaldi became heavily involved in the politics of the reunified country and is honoured as one of the founders of modern Italy

Return to The Artists Page

 Next Artist