Tommaso Aniello was born in Naples to a poor fisherman's family. He would briefly become the most powerful man in Naples.

Worked selling fish in the markets of Naples. His life among the common people gave him understanding of their grievances.

Married Bernardina Pisa. The couple remained poor as Spanish taxes continued to burden the Neapolitan people.

Turned to smuggling to survive the heavy Spanish taxation. His wife was imprisoned for tax evasion, deepening his hatred of Spanish rule.

A new tax on fruit triggered popular revolt. Masaniello emerged as leader, channeling the people's fury against Spanish taxation.

Led thousands of armed citizens in taking control of Naples. Spanish forces retreated to their fortresses as the rebels controlled the streets.

Forced the Spanish Viceroy to negotiate. Won abolition of hated taxes and confirmation of ancient privileges for the Neapolitan people.

The Viceroy recognized Masaniello as Captain-General of the Neapolitan people. From fishmonger to ruler in days.

Met with the Viceroy as an equal, dressed in silver cloth. His rapid rise to power astonished all of Europe.

Signed a treaty ending Spanish abuses and confirming popular rights. The Spanish appeared to accept the revolution's demands.

Began showing signs of mental instability, possibly from poison or the stress of power. His behavior became increasingly erratic and violent.

His increasingly unstable behavior alienated former supporters. Executions and wild pronouncements turned the people against him.

Assassinated by former allies in a church. His body was dragged through the streets, then retrieved and given a hero's funeral. His brief revolution inspired revolts across Europe.

After initially desecrating his body, the people repented and gave him a grand funeral procession. His story became a symbol of popular resistance to tyranny.