Eugenio Scalfari, born on April 6, 1924, in Civitavecchia, Italy, was a towering figure in Italian journalism, a prolific writer, and an influential political commentator. Scalfari’s life and career spanned nearly a century, during which he witnessed and influenced significant historical events in Italy. His contributions to journalism, particularly as the founder of La Repubblica, one of Italy’s most important newspapers, have left an indelible mark on the country’s media landscape. This article delves into the life of Eugenio Scalfari, exploring his early years, his rise to fame, his role in shaping Italian journalism, and his enduring legacy.
Early Life and Education
Eugenio Scalfari was born into a family with deep intellectual roots. His father, an officer in the Italian Navy, instilled in him a sense of discipline and duty, while his mother encouraged his intellectual curiosity. Scalfari spent his formative years in Sanremo, where his family moved when he was young. It was in this picturesque town on the Italian Riviera that Scalfari developed a love for literature and philosophy, which would later inform his work as a journalist and writer.
After completing his high school education in Sanremo, Scalfari moved to Rome to pursue a degree in law at the University of Rome. Although he initially considered a career in law, his passion for writing and politics soon led him down a different path. While still a student, Scalfari began his journalistic career, contributing to various publications. His early work was marked by a strong commitment to liberal and social ideals, which would remain a constant throughout his life.
The Beginnings of a Journalism Career
Scalfari’s first significant experience in journalism came during World War II when he wrote for Roma Fascista, a publication aligned with the Fascist regime. However, as the war ended and Italy underwent a period of profound political and social transformation, Scalfari distanced himself from his early affiliations and embraced the ideals of liberal democracy.
In the post-war years, Scalfari became associated with the newly-formed Italian Liberal Party and began writing for Il Mondo, a liberal weekly founded by Mario Pannunzio. Il Mondo was a hub of intellectual and political discourse in post-war Italy, and Scalfari’s work there helped him establish a reputation as a thoughtful and incisive commentator on political and economic issues.
Founding L’Espresso and Early Political Engagement
In 1955, Scalfari took a significant step in his career by co-founding L’Espresso, a news magazine that would become one of Italy’s most influential publications. L’Espresso was conceived as a platform for in-depth investigative journalism and political analysis, and under Scalfari’s leadership, it quickly gained a reputation for its bold and fearless reporting.
Scalfari served as the director of L’Espresso from 1963 to 1968, during which time the magazine played a crucial role in shaping public discourse in Italy. One of the most notable events during his tenure was the publication of an investigation into the “Piano Solo” coup attempt, which exposed a plot by elements within the Italian military to overthrow the government. The investigation, conducted by Scalfari and his colleague Lino Jannuzzi, led to a 15-month prison sentence for both journalists, highlighting the risks they were willing to take in the pursuit of truth.
During this period, Scalfari also became actively involved in politics. In 1968, he was elected as a member of the Italian Parliament, representing the Italian Socialist Party (PSI). Although his time in politics was relatively short, it reflected his deep commitment to the ideals of social justice and political reform.
The Birth of La Repubblica
The most significant achievement of Scalfari’s career came in 1976 when he founded La Repubblica, a daily newspaper that would revolutionize Italian journalism. La Repubblica was born out of Scalfari’s vision of a newspaper that could combine rigorous investigative journalism with a commitment to social and political issues. The newspaper quickly gained a large readership, particularly among Italy’s urban middle class and intellectual elite.
From its inception, La Repubblica was characterized by its editorial independence and its willingness to challenge the status quo. Under Scalfari’s leadership, the newspaper became known for its in-depth coverage of political corruption, economic inequality, and social issues. It also played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion on key issues, such as the 1974 divorce referendum and the 1981 abortion referendum, both of which were crucial moments in Italy’s social history.
Scalfari’s editorial direction was instrumental in making La Repubblica a dominant force in Italian media. By the 1980s, it had become one of the most widely read newspapers in the country, rivaling the historic Corriere della Sera. Scalfari’s ability to blend high-quality journalism with a clear editorial stance made La Repubblica a powerful voice in Italian society.
Influence and Legacy in Italian Journalism
Eugenio Scalfari’s influence on Italian journalism extended far beyond his work with La Repubblica. He was a mentor to many young journalists and played a key role in shaping the careers of several prominent figures in the industry. His commitment to journalistic integrity and his belief in the power of the press as a tool for social change inspired a generation of reporters and editors.
Scalfari’s approach to journalism was rooted in a deep understanding of the political and social context in which he operated. He believed that journalism should not only inform but also challenge readers to think critically about the world around them. This philosophy guided his work throughout his career and is evident in the numerous investigations and editorials he penned over the years.
One of the most significant contributions of Scalfari’s career was his role in the Mani Pulite (Clean Hands) investigations of the early 1990s. These investigations, which exposed widespread corruption in Italian politics and business, were a turning point in the country’s history. La Repubblica played a crucial role in bringing the details of these scandals to light, and Scalfari’s editorial leadership was central to the newspaper’s coverage.
Scalfari’s impact on Italian journalism was recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his life. In 1996, he was appointed a Knight of the Grand Cross by Italian President Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, and in 1999, he received the prestigious Legion of Honor from the French government. These accolades reflected the high regard in which he was held both in Italy and abroad.
A Prolific Writer and Intellectual
In addition to his work as a journalist, Eugenio Scalfari was a prolific writer and intellectual. He authored numerous books on politics, philosophy, and journalism, many of which are considered essential reading for anyone interested in Italian history and culture.
Among his most notable works is “Razza Padrona,” co-authored with Giuseppe Turani, which examines the rise of Italy’s economic elite in the post-war period. The book was a bestseller and remains a key text for understanding the dynamics of power and wealth in modern Italy.
Scalfari’s writing was characterized by its clarity, depth, and intellectual rigor. He had a unique ability to distill complex ideas into accessible prose, making his work both informative and engaging. His books and essays continue to be widely read and respected, both in Italy and internationally.
Personal Life and Final Years
Eugenio Scalfari’s personal life was as rich and complex as his professional career. He was known for his intellectual curiosity, his love of literature, and his deep commitment to the ideals of liberal democracy. Despite his public prominence, Scalfari remained a private individual, preferring to let his work speak for itself.
In his later years, Scalfari continued to write and contribute to public discourse, even after stepping down as the director of La Repubblica in 1996. He remained an active commentator on Italian politics and society, and his insights were sought after by media outlets and political leaders alike.
Scalfari passed away on July 14, 2022, at the age of 98. His death marked the end of an era in Italian journalism, but his legacy lives on through the countless journalists he mentored, the publications he founded, and the impact he had on Italian society.
The Legacy of Eugenio Scalfari
Eugenio Scalfari’s legacy is one of intellectual courage, journalistic integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of democracy and social justice. He was a pioneer in Italian journalism, and his work has left a lasting imprint on the media landscape in Italy and beyond.
Scalfari’s career is a testament to the power of the press to shape public opinion and influence political and social change. His contributions to Italian journalism will be remembered as a crucial part of the country’s history, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
As we reflect on Scalfari’s life and work, it is clear that he was more than just a journalist; he was a thinker, a writer, and a leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth and the betterment of society. His legacy is a reminder of the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society and the impact that one individual can have on the world.
Conclusion
Eugenio Scalfari’s life and career offer a rich tapestry of experiences and achievements that reflect the complexities of 20th and 21st-century Italy. From his early days as a journalist to his role as the founder of La Repubblica, Scalfari was a key figure in the development of Italian journalism and a powerful voice in the country’s political and social discourse.
His commitment to journalistic excellence, his intellectual rigor, and his unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire journalists and thinkers for years to come. Eugenio Scalfari’s story is one of passion, integrity, and a lifelong pursuit of truth—a legacy that will be remembered as one of the most significant in the history of Italian journalism.
