Repubblica Sociale Italiana (RSI)

The state established in the German-controlled area of CN Italy after the 9th September 1943; also called Repubblica di Salò, from the name of its capital. Its head of state was Mussolini, who was also leader of the new republican Fascist party. The RSI was noted for the ruthless persecution of partisans operated by special forces such as X MAS and the Black Brigades. Its most important political event was the 1944 Verona trial of the party members who had turned against Mussolini at the Gran Consiglio meeting of 27 March 1943. The republic was dissolved in April 1945.