The Popes against the Protestants : The Vatican and Evangelical Christianity in Fascist Italy

Yale University Press

Uncover the troubling and previously untold story of an anti-Protestant campaign in Fascist Italy, driven by an alliance between the Catholic Church and the Italian Fascist regime. "The Popes Against the Protestants" by Kevin Madigan delves into how, in the aftermath of the Great War, clerical leaders in Rome viewed Protestants as a significant menace, embodying dangers like heresy, secularism, modernity, and Americanism – potent threats to Italian civilization and Catholic precepts. This historical account, based on undisclosed archival materials, reveals how the Pope and cardinals framed evangelical Christianity as a peril not only to the Church but also to the fascist government, enlisting powerful fascist officials. This comprehensive book is the first full exploration of this dangerous alliance, detailing its impact on clerical energy, cultural space, and literature produced. Key Features: * Detailed account of the Vatican and Evangelical Christianity in Fascist Italy. * Based on previously undisclosed archival materials. * Explores the long-lasting anti-Protestant campaign. * Highlights the framing of evangelical Christianity as a threat to both Church and state. * First full account of this dangerous alliance. Product Summary: Yale University Press, History, Hardcover book, English language, 349 pages, published in 2021.