February 25

Born in Pescasseroli, Italy, Croce became a central figure in European philosophy and historiography. He developed a comprehensive idealist system that deeply influenced early 20th-century thought. As a prolific writer, he authored works on aesthetics, history, and philosophy. He served as Italy's Minister of Education and later as President of the Italian Senate. Croce advocated liberal democracy and cultural renewal in the aftermath of World War I. His critical editions of Machiavelli and other thinkers reshaped modern scholarship. He remained active in Italian intellectual life until his death in 1952.