Garibaldi-spel before 1860

This ‘Garibaldi-spel’, or Garibaldi Game, was printed in the Netherlands, probably sometime in the mid-19th century. It uses printmaking techniques to create a board game. The game is rich with cultural and historical associations, particularly linked to Italian unification. Giuseppe Garibaldi was a central figure in this movement, which aimed to consolidate the Italian peninsula into a single, unified state. The game appropriates Garibaldi as a figure of political significance, mapping his military campaigns onto a playful format. The imagery and text within each square likely reference specific events or locations in Garibaldi's life. The inclusion of the Italian flag at the center of the board further emphasizes the game's connection to Italian nationalism. Its presence in the Netherlands speaks to the widespread interest in Italian affairs in the mid-19th century. Historians interested in political imagery can use sources like newspapers, political pamphlets, and personal letters to better understand the game's context. By studying these sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex interplay between politics, culture, and entertainment.