King of Italy MayJune 1946. When his father Victor Emmanuel III abdicated in May 1946, he was proclaimed king, and ruled 9 May13 June 1946. He was forced to abdicate as the monarchy's collusion in the rise of fascism made him highly unpopular, and a referendum decided in favour of a republic. He retired to Portugal, where he died.
Blue represents the black population and links with Africa. Red stands for those of mixed race. The original blue and red flag was based on the French tricolour. Effective date: 25 February 1986.