Omertà
Literally translated to mean “manhood,” Omertà refers
to the idea of a man resolving his own problems, but the term has become
synonymous with the Mafia’s code of silence. The arcane rituals, and
much of the organization’s structure linked to the Mafia were largely
based on those of the Catholic confraternities and even Freemasonry, colored
by the familial traditions of Sicilian culture and even certain customs associated
with military-religious orders of chivalry like the Order of Malta.
During his invasion if Sicily in 1860, Garibaldi certainly had the support of
Mafia bands, though they were not a decisive factor in his victory. It was suggested
to King Francesco II of the Two Sicilies, that same year, that the Camorra murder
Garibaldi and his officers upon their arrival in Naples. The King refused his
subjects proposal.