BASSI, UGO Italian patriot, was born in Cento, and received his early education at Bologna. An unhappy love affair induced him to become a novice in the Barnabite order when 18 years old. He entered on his ministry in 1833 and became famous as a preacher, his sermons attracting large crowds. In 1848, when Pope Pius IX. still appeared to be a Liberal and an Italian patriot, Bassi joined General Durando's papal force to protect the frontiers as army chaplain. After the pope's flight from Rome and the proclamation of the Roman republic, Bassi took part with Garibaldi's forces against the French troops sent to re-establish the temporal power. He exposed his life many times while tending the wounded under fire, and when Garibaldi was forced to leave Rome the faithful monk followed him. When the legion broke up, Bassi and a fellow-Garibaldian, Count Livraghi, after endless hardships were captured near Comacchio. On being brought before the papal governor, Bassi said : "I am guilty of no crime save that of being an Italian like yourself. I have risked my life for Italy, and your duty is to do good to those who have suffered for her." The governor gave them over to an Austrian officer ; they were falsely charged before a court martial with having been found with arms in their hands, and shot on Aug. 8, 1849. Bassi is one of the most beautiful figures of the Italian revolution, a gentle unselfish soul, who, although unusually gifted and accomplished, had an almost childlike nature.
Countess Martinengo, Italian Characters (2nd ed., 1901) ; Zironi, Vita del Padre Ugo Bassi (Bologna, 1879) .