1. Nilde Iotti was the first and only woman member of the PCI to become the president of the Chamber of Deputies, an office she held for three consecutive legislatures from 1979 to 1992, becoming the longest-serving post-war president of the Chamber.
Leonilde Iotti was born in Reggio Emilia in 1920; her father Egidio was a railroader and a socialist trade unionist, fired by the railway company on account of his political commitment.
Nilde Iotti's father died in 1934, but, thanks to a scholarship, she attended the Catholic University of Milan, graduating in literature in 1942.
On 5 October 1942, Nilde Iotti became a member of the National Fascist Party within the Federation of Female Fascists of Reggio Emilia; this membership was required in order to become a teacher.
Nilde Iotti was one of the 75 members of the Committee entrusted with the drafting of the Italian Republican Constitution.
Nilde Iotti was particularly involved in the campaign for the 1974 divorce referendum.
Nilde Iotti focused her first speech in front of the House on women's role in society as well as the fight against terrorism.
Nilde Iotti was popular and respected as a president, and was confirmed in the office for two more legislatures.
Nilde Iotti became the first communist and the first woman to have ever received an exploratory mandate to become Prime Minister of Italy; however, Iotti was not able to form a coalition.
In 1992, Nilde Iotti's name was put forward for the election for President of the Italian Republic.
Nilde Iotti died in Rome on 4 December 1999, and is buried in the Cimitero del Verano.