Vendetta

: For the computer game, see Vendetta (game). For the metalcore band, see Vendetta(band). For the movie V for Vendetta, see V_For_Vendetta

Modern times

Vendetta is reputedly still practised in some areas in Corsica and Italy; especially Sardinia, Sicily and Calabria, Crete in Greece and in northern Albania, where those seeking retribution do not accept or respect the local law enforcement authority. Vendettas are generally based on a perceived or actual indifference on behalf of local law enforcement.

Related Topics:
Corsica - Italy - Sardinia - Sicily - Calabria - Crete - Greece - Albania

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In Japan's feudal past the Samurai class upheld the honor of their family, clan, or their lord by katakiuchi (敵討ち), or revenge killings. These killings could also involve the relatives of an offender.

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Similarly, honor killings are practised among more conservative sections of Muslim society, usually against female members of a family for perceived or actual sexual transgressions.

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Mutual vendetta may develop into a vicious circle of further killings, retaliation, counterattacks and all-out warfare that can end in the mutual extinction of both families. Often the primary cause is forgotten, and feuds continue simply because there has always been a feud.

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Traditions similar to vendetta have existed almost everywhere, as between various Arabic people, Albanians and Circassians. Some of the gang wars between organized crime groups are effectively forms of vendetta, where the criminal organization (like the Mafia "family") has taken the place of relatives.

Related Topics:
Arab - Albania - Circassians - Gang war - Organized crime - Mafia

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In the modern parlance the term is sometimes extended to mean any other long-standing mutual quarrel, disagreement or rivalry. One political party may state that the other party is pursuing, for example, investigation of some matter as a form of political vendetta.

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