Born: 1903 (Turin, Italy)
Biography:
Tina Pizzardo, also known as Battistina Pizzardo, was an Italian mathematician and anti-fascist who made significant contributions to society. Born on February 5, 1903, in Turin, she dedicated her life to fighting against the oppressive regime of fascism in Italy. Pizzardo’s extraordinary journey in academia and activism, as well as her perseverance in the face of adversity, continue to inspire generations of women to this day.
Pizzardo’s passion for mathematics began early on, leading her to enroll in the University of Turin. She graduated from the university in 1925, equipped with a strong foundation in this field. Recognized for her talent and dedication, she became a member of the Academia pro interlingua in 1926. It was during this time that Pizzardo’s path intersected with Altiero Spinelli and other like-minded anti-fascists. Their shared commitment to opposing fascism would shape the course of her life.
In March 1926, Pizzardo traveled to Rome to participate in a qualification competition for teaching positions in secondary schools. However, her presence in the anti-fascist circles caught the attention of the police, leading to her arrest in September of that year. Charged with subversive activity, she was sentenced to one year in prison and three years of probation. Pizzardo was transferred to various prisons, including Turin, Ancona, and ultimately Rome’s women’s prison. Despite the challenging conditions, she organized protests alongside fellow inmates, refusing to let her spirit be broken.
Upon her release from prison on September 13, 1928, Pizzardo faced numerous hurdles. Despite her qualifications, she lost her teaching job and was unable to find employment in state schools due to her anti-fascist background. Undeterred, she resorted to providing private mathematics lessons to make ends meet. Pizzardo’s resilience during this uncertain period exemplified her unwavering determination to continue pursuing her passion for mathematics and education.
Throughout her life, Pizzardo maintained connections with prominent anti-fascists in Turin, including Mario Carrara, Paola Lombroso, Giuseppe Levi, Adriano Olivetti, and Barbara Allason. Her strength of character was tested further when she found herself attracted to three men: Altiero Spinelli, Henek Rieser, and Cesare Pavese. Such personal struggles, combined with her resolute dedication to the anti-fascist cause, shaped Pizzardo’s character and influenced her trajectory.
Following the fall of fascism, Pizzardo once again crossed paths with Altiero Spinelli. In 1943, she joined the European Federalist Movement founded by Spinelli, further solidifying her commitment to promoting peace and unity in Europe. Pizzardo’s contribution to the movement was invaluable, and her involvement played a crucial role in shaping the organization’s direction.
Continuing her advocacy for a united Europe, Pizzardo ran as a candidate for the House in the 1948 general elections, aligning herself with the Action Party. Her involvement in politics further exemplified her dedication to bringing about positive change, not just in Italy but also internationally.
In 1962, Pizzardo chronicled her remarkable life experiences in a memoir titled Senza pensarci due volte (Without thinking twice). Originally circulated in typescript, her memoirs were published posthumously in 1996. In this book, Pizzardo portrayed herself as a free-spirited and sociable woman, unafraid to form connections with multiple individuals simultaneously. Her candid account provided readers with insight into her complex personality and the multifaceted nature of her life.
Tina Pizzardo’s story serves as a constant reminder of the strength and resilience of women throughout history. Her contributions to mathematics, activism, and the European Federalist Movement continue to inspire generations. Pizzardo’s unwavering commitment to her convictions, despite the challenges she faced, solidifies her place in women’s history as a trailblazer and a true champion of justice and equality.