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War of the Waves : Radio and Resistance During World War II

Author

Listed:
  • Stefano Gagliarducci

    (University of Rome Tor Vergata, EIEF, IZA and Dondena)

  • Massimiliano Gaetano Onorato

    (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore)

  • Francesco Sobbrio

    (LUISS “G. Carli” and CESIfo)

  • Guido Tabellini

    (Bocconi University, CIFAR, CEPR and CESIfo)

Abstract

What is the role of the media in coordinating and mobilizing insurgency against a foreign military occupation? We analyze this question in the context of the Nazi-fascist occupation of Italy during WWII. We study the effect of BBC radio counter-propaganda (Radio Londra) on the intensity of internal resistance to the Nazi-fascist regime. Using variation in monthly sunspot activities affecting the sky-wave propagation of BBC broadcasting towards Italy, we show that BBC radio had a strong impact on political violence. We provide further evidence to prove that BBC radio played an important role in coordinating resistance activities, but had no lasting role in motivating the population against the fascist regime.

Suggested Citation

  • Stefano Gagliarducci & Massimiliano Gaetano Onorato & Francesco Sobbrio & Guido Tabellini, 2018. "War of the Waves : Radio and Resistance During World War II," EIEF Working Papers Series 1803, Einaudi Institute for Economics and Finance (EIEF), revised Feb 2018.
    • Handle: RePEc:eie:wpaper:1803
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • L82 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Entertainment; Media
    • N44 - Economic History - - Government, War, Law, International Relations, and Regulation - - - Europe: 1913-

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