Italian Futurism was an immensely popular art movement. It represented the unstoppable force of modernity, and celebrated machines, speed, and technology. It connected artists like Luigi Russolo, Carlo Carrà, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti, Umberto Boccioni, and Gino Severini. Because of its ties to Italian Fascism, the movement is also quite controversial. Here are nine facts about Italian Futurism that you should know.

1. Italian Futurism Began with a Traffic Accident

Breaking away from the old ways and denouncing tradition is hardly a groundbreaking concept for progressive art movements of all time. However, Italian Futurism was perhaps the most radical attempt to burn down the legacy of the past. This intense and deeply controversial movement lasted for just about a decade, with several short revivals in the following years. Yet Futurism had a tremendous impact on modern art history.