1968 to 1988 was a period of recurrent political violence in Italy, resulting in over 400 deaths.
Neo-fascist groups largely left over from the Mussolini era, aiming for a return to authoritarianism, pursued a “strategy of tension” mounting often indiscriminate attacks. They were supported by elements of the Italian intelligence services and NATO under Operation Gladio.
The Marxist-Leninist Red Brigades, aiming for a communist revolution and Italy's exit from NATO, carried out targeted bombings and assassinations, including the killing of prime minister Aldo Moro in 1978. They were supported by the secret police of communist Czechoslovakia and the PLO.