La Disperata was one of the most renowned Fascist action squads, symbolizing audacity and recklessness. Originally, during the Fiume Expedition (1919), it referred to Gabriele D’Annunzio’s bodyguard unit, formed by volunteers like Guido Keller. These men, known for their indomitable spirit, engaged in perilous training, including hand grenade fights.
On March 14, 1921, in Florence, the first Fascist action squad named “La Disperata” was established, comprising 21 men, including war veterans, Arditi, and students. The name quickly spread, adopted by squads in various Italian cities such as Bari, Modena, and Turin. Some variations included “La Disperatissima”.