The Pope's Legion: The Multinational Fighting Force That Defended the Vatican

With a makeup and passion reminiscent of the forces that fought the armies of Mordor in Tolkien's Return of the King, the Pontifical Zouaves occupy a little-known chapter in Catholic Church history. Coulombe (Vicars of Christ) tells their story in detail, claiming this is the first time it has been related in such depth in English. The Zouaves, who took their name and style of dress from Algerian tribesmen, came from four continents and at least 17 countries to fight a 10-year war that began with the Sardinian seizure of Romagna in 1860 and Pope Pius IX's decision to resist the emerging Italian nationalist movement. Although the Zouaves' quest ultimately failed, their history is replete with many heroic moments, and their deep spirituality later influenced Catholics in other military units. Coulombe acknowledges that few today treasure the Zouaves' memory because of a general disdain for Catholic militancy, but he is heartened by a recent revival of interest in their story. Military aficionados will enjoy this as much as readers attracted by the Zouaves' connection to Catholic history.