Garibaldi in Love: An Epic and Passionate Romance… and a song!
The legend of a timeless love
One of the most mythical love stories in history is that of Giuseppe and Anita Garibaldi. Their fateful meeting took place on July 21, 1839, in South America, where Garibaldi was fighting alongside the separatists of Rio Grande.
During an inspection in the town of Laguna, he met a young woman with long black hair. Although she was already married, Anita fell madly in love with the charismatic Italian general. They quickly embarked on a passionate romance, deeply tied to their shared patriotic ideals, fighting side by side through hunger and hardship.
A complicated relationship
Despite their passion, their love was troubled. Anita was extremely jealous and made Garibaldi’s life a nightmare. She never left his side, even following him into battle and living in military camps with the soldiers. However, her jealousy was not unfounded, as Garibaldi was known to be quite the womanizer.
Tragically, Anita died in 1849, pregnant and suffering from malaria, during a military retreat. The details of her death remain a mystery: some claim Garibaldi shot her, while others say she died in his arms. The truth was buried with her. Her grave was later dug up by a dog—perhaps the only one who truly knows what happened.
The Garibaldi you didn’t expect
The song “Garibaldi in Love” was written and performed by Sergio Caputo, a renowned songwriter, composer, and guitarist. He debuted in Europe with the success of his first LP in 1983, blending jazz with Latin pop. Today, Caputo splits his time between California and Italy.
Why a song about Garibaldi?
The singer explains: “The music had a decidedly Latin vibe, so the lyrics needed a story equally steeped in Latin culture. I thought and thought, until… boom! Garibaldi. But not the Garibaldi from history books; rather, the adventurer, the pirate, the womanizer. The Garibaldi who lingered in South America for the love of revolution…
Il Garibaldi Innamorato di Sergio Caputo
Garibaldi’s love lives on
The story of Giuseppe and Anita Garibaldi is an irresistible cocktail of passion, jealousy, battles, and mystery. It’s a legendary love that spanned continents, ignited revolutions, and inspired songs. Who knows? Perhaps their tumultuous relationship isn’t just a tale of the past, but a reminder for us all to live with the same fire and courage… just maybe without the jealousy and grave-digging dogs!
