The Red Brigades: Kidnapping Aldo Moro and Its Impact on Argentina and Italy

Background

The Red Brigades was an Italian terrorist group founded in the 1970s. They were known for their extreme left-wing ideology and violent tactics, including kidnappings, assassinations, and bombings.

The Kidnapping of Aldo Moro

A Defining Moment in Italian History

On March 16, 1978, the Red Brigades kidnapped Aldo Moro, a prominent Italian politician and former Prime Minister. The kidnapping shocked the nation and sparked a prolonged political crisis.

The kidnappers demanded the release of imprisoned members of the Red Brigades in exchange for Moro's freedom. The Italian government отказался to negotiate, leading to a 55-day ordeal that captivated the world.

On May 9, 1978, Moro's body was discovered in the trunk of a car in Rome. He had been shot multiple times, ending a period of intense anxiety and political turmoil.

Argentina's Involvement

A Connection to the Montoneros

In the late 1970s, there were allegations that Argentina's Montonero guerrilla group had provided support to the Red Brigades. These claims arose from the fact that several Red Brigade members had received training in Argentina from the Montoneros.

However, the extent of the connection between the two groups remains unclear. Some researchers suggest that the Montoneros may have provided logistical support, while others argue that the relationship was more limited.

Italy's Response

Anti-Terrorism Measures and Political Consequences

The kidnapping of Aldo Moro had a profound impact on Italian society and politics.

• The government enacted strict anti-terrorism laws, which included the establishment of special courts to deal with terrorist offenses.
• The kidnapping also contributed to the rise of the right-wing political movement in Italy, as many voters sought a strong response to terrorism.

Conclusion

The Red Brigades' kidnapping of Aldo Moro was a watershed event in Italian and Argentine history. It demonstrated the group's ruthlessness and the challenges faced by governments in combating terrorism.

The legacy of the kidnapping continues to be debated today, as the search for a full understanding of the circumstances surrounding it remains an ongoing pursuit.