Sicily's British Occupation.

HISTORY of Sicily, Italy, 1806-1815; GREAT Britain-Italy relations; CONSTITUTIONAL history; FERDINAND I, King of the Two Sicilies, 1751-1825; BENTINCK, William Henry Cavendish, Lord, 1774-1839; JOACHIM Murat, King of Naples, 1767-1815; HISTORY

SICILY (Italy); NAPLES (Italy); ITALY; UNITED Kingdom

The article looks at the British occupation of Sicily, Italy during the early 19th century. According to the author, during this time it was conceivable that Sicily would become an official British possession. Particular focus is given to the British government's relationship to King Ferdinand III of Sicily and to the efforts of British commander and representative Lord William Bentinck to negotiate with the King. Details on a proposed constitution for the kingdom, which was based on the British government and included a bicameral parliament and reformed justice and land ownership systems, are presented. Other topics include King Joachim Murat of Naples, Italy, and Napoleon I of France.