Politics Without History
摘要
This chapter explores the relationship between politics and history in Italy, particularly focusing on the interplay between political parties and historiography from the post-World War II era to the present day. It delves into the historical underpinnings of the Partito Comunista Italiano (PCI) under Palmiro Togliatti, noting how history was weaponised to reinforce the party's ideological stance. Further, it discusses the transformation of Italian political parties in response to changing societal contexts, highlighting how leaders like Achille Occhetto and Walter Veltroni attempted to reshape their parties’ historical identities in the wake of the collapse of communism. It observes a shift towards a rejection of historical background in newer parties like the Movimento Cinque Stelle and under leaders like Matteo Renzi, where an emphasis on presentism emerged, ultimately suggesting that contemporary Italian politics increasingly operates devoid of historical depth or relevance. The narrative articulates a growing disconnect between politics and history, leading to a phenomenon where political parties no longer feel the need to draw on historical narratives, instead opting for immediate, often superficial connections with the electorate.