Republic of Alba (1944)

The Republic of Alba was a short-lived state that existed from 10 October to 2 November 1944 in Alba, northern Italy, as a local resistance against Italian fascism during World War II, and which was part of the so-called Italian Partisan Republics, the first of which was the Republic of Corniolo. It was named after the Napoleonic Republic of Alba that existed in 1796 in Piedmont.

Occupation of Alba
On 10 October 1944, c. 2000 partisans occupied the city almost without conflict since the fascist contingents under Ippolito Radaelli had abandoned the city following negotiations with the partisans mediated by the Curia. The partisans were mostly from Alpini divisions led by Enrico Martini.

The partisan government
Command of the city was assumed by Carletto Morelli, while the civil administration continued under chosen local officials.

The fascist counterattack
Fascist troops gathered at Bra and Pollenzo with reinforcements from Turin. They attempted to ford the Tanaro after 24 October but were repulsed, suffering 11 casualties including their commanding officer.

Quotes
"Alba was conquered by two thousand people on the 10th of October and two hundred lost it on the 2nd of November of the year 1944"