Italian researcher and writer Maria Anita holds an MA in History with a focus in Jewish Studies from LMU Munich and a BA in History from the University of Bologna.
Education
MA History — Ludwig-Maximilian-Universität Munich (LMU)
BA History — University of Bologna
Areas of Expertise
The Guelphs vs. Ghibellines Feud That Turned Italian Cities Into Battlefields
In 13th- and 14th-century Italy, the bitter rivalry between the Guelphs and Ghibellines led to conflicts within the cities, split between the pro-papacy and pro-empire factions.
8 Medieval Universities That Taught Europe How to Think
“Knowledge is power.” Here is a brief overview of the eight most influential universities that shaped Europe’s knowledge and way of thinking in the Middle Ages and beyond.
How the Fall of Rome Created the Power of the Medieval Papacy
After the fall of Rome in the 5th century, the papacy began to gain influence in the Western World, shaping the politics, culture, and society of the Early Middle Ages.
Martin Luther’s 95 Revolutionary Theses That Sparked the Reformation
In 1517, Martin Luther posted 95 propositions for debate (known as the Ninety-Five Theses) on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. The act would lead to a religious schism.
10 Medieval Landmarks That Define England’s Turbulent Past
Explore a historical map of England, featuring iconic medieval landmarks from castles to cathedrals.
The 1886 Haymarket Affair That Led to International Workers’ Day
The 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago was a pivotal moment in labor history, leading to the establishment of International Workers’ Day.
The Role, Capture, and Historic Trial of Adolf Eichmann
In 1960, Adolf Eichmann, one of the “architects” of the Holocaust, was captured in Argentina by a team of Mossad agents.
A Pope’s Revenge: The Bloody War That Followed the Pazzi Conspiracy
The War of the Pazzi (1478-1480) was a brief conflict between Florence and the Papal States allied with Naples.
How the Martellus Map Saw Africa and Europe During the Age of Exploration
Around the 1480s, cartographer Henricus Martellus designed a series of maps showing how Europe perceived the world on the eve of the Age of Exploration.
5 Breakthroughs in Ancient Medicine That Still Matter Today
Recently, cutting-edge technologies and novel treatments have led to groundbreaking advancements. Some basic concepts still underscoring the medical field have been around since Antiquity.
How a Rebel Sailor Named Giuseppe Garibaldi Became Italy’s National Idol
Giuseppe Garibaldi led Italian patriots to achieve the Risorgimento's political dream: a united Italy.
How Frederick Barbarossa’s War With the Papacy Shook the Empire
In the 12th century, Frederick Barbarossa and the papacy vied for authority in a conflict that shook the Holy Roman Empire’s foundations and its hold over Italy.