Rosario Bentivegna

Rosario Bentivegna

Rosario Bentivegna (June 22, 1922 – April 2, 2012) was an Italian partisan and physician known for his role in the Italian resistance movement during World War II. He was a member of the Gruppi di Azione Patriottica (GAP), a group of partisans who carried out acts of sabotage and guerrilla warfare against the Axis powers.

Early Life

Rosario Bentivegna was born in Rome, Italy, on June 22, 1922. He studied medicine at the Sapienza University of Rome, where he became involved in anti-fascist activities. His early exposure to the oppressive regime of Benito Mussolini fueled his commitment to the resistance movement.

World War II and Resistance Activities

During World War II, Bentivegna joined the Italian resistance movement and became a prominent member of the Gruppi di Azione Patriottica. He is best known for his participation in the Via Rasella attack on March 23, 1944, a bold operation against the occupying Nazi forces in Rome. The attack resulted in the deaths of 33 German soldiers and led to the Ardeatine massacre, a brutal reprisal by the Nazis in which 335 Italian civilians were executed.

Post-War Life and Career

After the war, Bentivegna completed his medical studies and became a practicing physician. He remained active in political and social causes, advocating for the recognition and commemoration of the Italian resistance fighters. Bentivegna also authored several books recounting his experiences during the war and the importance of the resistance movement.

Death and Legacy

Rosario Bentivegna passed away on April 2, 2012, in Rome. He is remembered as a hero of the Italian resistance and a dedicated physician. His contributions to the fight against fascism and his efforts to preserve the memory of the resistance continue to be honored in Italy.

Related Pages

• Italian resistance movement
• Gruppi di Azione Patriottica
• Via Rasella attack
• Ardeatine massacre
• Benito Mussolini
• Nazi Germany
• World War II
• Sapienza University of Rome