The 'Lega Nord' is one of the most important right-wing populist parties to emerge in Western Europe during the past two decades. It continues to play a very significant role in Italian politics. The author links the Lega Nord's rise to the socioeconomic development of the north over the south in Italy and the political process which created a voting block in the south. This led the north of Italy to see 'Rome' as a predatory entity, drawing resources and impeding progress in the north to support the south. The author examines this process and explores the implications it produces for the whole of Europe.

THOMAS GOLD is Assistant Professor of Political Science at Sacred Heart University. He focuses on Italian politics and conducted research in Italy on a Fulbright Fellowship.

Overview The Origins of the Centralized State in Italy Centralization in the Post-War Period Critical Shifts in the 1980s The Rise of the Northern League in the 1990s Beyond the League Conclusion Appendices