That's a shame, I used to like the political as opposed to the religious/sectarian divisions you see elsewhere. Though , on reflection, even when I was there there was a significant Lega Nord element amongst the Milanistas (some horrible anti southern banners when Napoli came to town) and the old left wing ultra groups - Fossa dei Leoni and Brigate Rossonere - seem to have gone. Think the Fossa disbanded itself after a death near a stadium, will look it up. Wish you and Swords would put each other on ignore, or at least not react. Two of the most entertaining and interesting posters on here constantly bitching is no fun. I really don't care who cast the first stone and who is right/wrong, its just a drag.
It's very sad what has happened to Italy over the last 40 years. Watershed was probably '77 and it's been downhill all the way since then. Personally I dread going back there and have visited the mainland only three times in 20 years and that was only to obtain documents. Unlike Germany there was never a proper clear out of the regime in Italy and Japan with the consequences we see today.
The years of lead never came to a real conclusion. Italy could really do with a proper Truth and Reconciliation process, but first there has to be some collective recognition that they have something to clear the air about. Having said that most (but not all) of the Italians I work with are horrified and embarrassed by the way the country has been run, and several are actively trying to do something about it, and any country that can produce Sabina Guzzanti has a lot going for it. And being shallow I still think its the most beautiful country on earth, with the best food, beautiful women and in many ways superb quality of life. Japan.......I don't know where to start.
