Ernst Piper

The Ciompi were the poorest of Florence's textile workers whose economic plight in the late 14th century was misused by the gente nuova (new people) in their fight against the old order. Their revolt was marked by excellent order (no plunder, targeted victims). Their demand for inclusive government, representing all people, was quickly subdued. The Ciompi were sold out by their leaders and, after four years, the old order restored. Marxists were very fond of the Ciompi, a wage proletariat long before factories became common.

Ernst Piper's short study offers a good, if somewhat disjointed overview of this episode of Florentine history. Many black and white illustrations present a glimpse at those doomed textile workers and their 14 to 16 hour workday.… (mer)