Indro Montanelli, 25 years ago the last stormtrooper died
Indro Montanelli, considered the dean of Italian journalism, passed away 25 years ago on July 22, 2001, at the Madonnina clinic in Milan. He was known as the last true 'invia d'assalto,' a term referring to journalists who bravely reported from dangerous locations. Montanelli had a long career spanning over four decades at the Corriere della Sera, where he covered significant historical events including World War II and the rise of fascism. He was imprisoned for anti-fascist activities during the war but later returned to journalism. Montanelli also founded the newspaper 'Il Giornale' in 1974, which became influential in Italian media. His relationship with Silvio Berlusconi was complex, involving both support and eventual departure from the publication after two decades. Despite leaving his role at 'Il Giornale,' Montanelli continued to contribute through editorials and writings, leaving behind a legacy of journalistic integrity and literary work.
Indro Montanelli was shot and wounded in an assassination attempt on June 2, 1977, while walking to his newspaper’s office in Milan. The attack took place near the Hotel Manin, where he left his hotel room at 10:15 a.m. and began his journey toward Piazza Cavour. As he passed through Via Manin, two young men approached him. One identified himself as Montanelli, prompting eight shots fired with a silenced weapon. Four bullets struck Montanelli, three hitting his left thigh and one grazing his left femur. He did not fall immediately but clung to the iron railing before slowly collapsing to the ground. Despite being armed, he did not draw his pistol. Dino Messina, another journalist, rushed to his aid and heard Montanelli mutter, “Vigliacchi, mi hanno fottuto” (“cowards, they have fucked me”). Montanelli survived the attack, though the incident marked a turning point in his life and career. The assailants were members of the Walter Alasia faction of the Brigate Rosse, a radical leftist group known for its violent tactics against perceived enemies of the revolution. The attackers were Franco Bonisoli and Lauro Azzolini. Their actions were motivated by ideological opposition to Montanelli, who had been a vocal critic of their movement and had previously sought to remove them from power. The attack on Montanelli occurred during a period of intense political conflict in Italy, characterized by widespread violence and the rise of militant groups. His survival was attributed to his physical resilience and the immediate assistance of fellow journalists, who helped him escape the scene. In the days following the shooting, the Corriere della Sera published a generic report stating that a journalist had been injured, without specifying Montanelli's name. This lack of transparency reflected the broader climate of fear and suppression that often accompanied such attacks. However, Montanelli’s influence continued to shape the media landscape even after this traumatic event. Ten years later, in 1987, he met his assassins while they were serving time in prison. During their encounter, Montanelli reportedly shook their hands and said, “After the war ends, among enemies, we toast.” This gesture symbolized a complex reconciliation between former adversaries, acknowledging the shared history of ideological struggle. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of Montanelli’s resistance to conformity and his commitment to independent journalism remained influential. Over the course of 25 years since his death on July 22, 2001, the Giornale has witnessed numerous changes in personnel and leadership, yet certain principles endured. The paper maintained its tradition of challenging authority and refusing to follow the crowd, a stance that Montanelli had championed throughout his career. On the anniversary of his death, the Giornale announced a new visual identity aimed at deepening its investigative reporting and storytelling. This change was framed as a tribute to Montanelli’s enduring impact on the publication and its mission. The Giornale has long been associated with a distinctive approach to journalism, one that defies convention and challenges established narratives. This ethos, rooted in Montanelli’s philosophy, continues to define the outlet’s editorial culture. The paper has consistently resisted efforts to align itself with mainstream political agendas, instead advocating for critical thinking and intellectual independence. This position has sometimes led to conflict with authorities and other media organizations, reinforcing the notion that the Giornale has always been a disruptive force within the journalistic community. Montanelli’s legacy extends beyond his personal experiences and professional achievements. His unwavering commitment to truth and autonomy in journalism serves as a powerful example for contemporary media practitioners. Even as the world around him changed, marked by technological advancements and shifting societal values, the core values of the Giornale remained intact. The recent redesign of the publication reflects a conscious effort to honor these values while adapting to modern demands. By embracing innovation without compromising its foundational principles, the Giornale continues to embody the spirit of its founder.
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How each side covered it
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The article commemorates the death of journalist Indro Montanelli, who was assassinated in 1977 by members of the leftist group 'Brigate Rosse.' It reflects on his legacy as a defiant journalist who refused to conform to mainstream narratives, and highlights the ongoing ideological conflicts that persist despite the passage of time. The piece connects Montanelli’s assassination to contemporary issues where radical ideologies continue to challenge societal norms through rhetoric and confrontation. The article also mentions the recent redesign of Il Giornale, emphasizing its commitment to investigative journalism and challenging conformity.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the persistence of ideological conflict and radicalism as a threat to societal harmony, aligning with conservative values that emphasize order and conformity. It portrays figures like Montanelli and modern radicals as disruptive forces, using strong language such as 'vigliacchi' (
Why factuality (85): The article references Indro Montanelli's death on July 22, 2001, and discusses the newspaper's history and stance against conformity. It mentions the shooting incident at the Hotel Manin on June 2, 1977, but does not provide full details of the event or sources beyond the primary document. The arti
Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat emotive, especially when describing the shooting incident and Montanelli's reaction. While the article presents historical facts, it uses dramatic language and frames events in a way that emphasizes the newspaper's rebellious nature, which may be seen as biased.
Il GiornaleParty-alignedCenterFactual 80Objective 754 days ago
The article reflects on the evolution of journalism over time, tracing the transformation of Il Giornale from traditional print methods like linotype machines to modern digital formats. It honors the legacy of the newspaper’s founder, Indro Montanelli, who passed away 25 years ago on July 22. The piece recalls the historical setting of the newspaper’s early days—its locations, printing processes, and the intense work environment—and contrasts this with today’s digital landscape. While acknowledging technological advancements, the article emphasizes the enduring identity and spirit of the publication.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on the history and evolution of a newspaper, reflecting on journalistic practices and cultural memory rather than taking a stance on current political issues. There is no clear ideological framing or biased emphasis on any particular political perspective.
Why factuality (80): This article focuses on the evolution of the newspaper and its design changes, referencing Indro Montanelli's legacy. It provides factual information about the transition from print to digital formats and the date of Montanelli's death. It aligns with the primary source document regarding the newspa
Why objectivity (75): The article maintains a more neutral tone compared to the previous one, focusing on the transformation of the newspaper rather than specific incidents. However, it still has a nostalgic and celebratory tone towards Montanelli's legacy, which could be seen as slightly subjective.
Indro Montanelli, considered the dean of Italian journalism, passed away 25 years ago on July 22, 2001, at the Madonnina clinic in Milan. He was known as the last true 'invia d'assalto,' a term referring to journalists who bravely reported from dangerous locations. Montanelli had a long career spanning over four decades at the Corriere della Sera, where he covered significant historical events including World War II and the rise of fascism. He was imprisoned for anti-fascist activities during the war but later returned to journalism. Montanelli also founded the newspaper 'Il Giornale' in 1974, which became influential in Italian media. His relationship with Silvio Berlusconi was complex, involving both support and eventual departure from the publication after two decades. Despite leaving his role at 'Il Giornale,' Montanelli continued to contribute through editorials and writings, leaving behind a legacy of journalistic integrity and literary work.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of Montanelli’s life and career, highlighting his roles in journalism, politics, and media ownership without overtly favoring any particular ideological stance. It includes historical context and mentions various political figures and events without biased ph
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