Giovanni Antonelli

The only member of the Thousand from Lucca was Giovanni Antonelli, son of Arcangelo, born in Pedona di Camaiore on 13 December 1820.

An illiterate labourer, Giovanni was always a rebel and active opponent of the political order of the time.

He deserted from the Grand Duke’s army, was arrested and managed to escape while being taken to Camaiore. Hearing of Garibaldi’s exploits, he decided to join him.

He subsequently moved to Livorno and then to Lucca; he was known universally by the nickname “the garibaldino”. In poor health, he lived on the pension provided to the Thousand and died on 17 November 1885.