Lazzaroni

Lazzaroni (Ital. lazzaro, 'leper;') probably from their being outcasts or separate from other citizens), until lately a special class of the inhabitants of Naples. They had no fixed habitations, regular occupation, or secure means of subsistence, but occasionally obtained employment as messengers, porters, boatmen, itinerant vendors of food, &c. They performed an important part in all the revolutions and movements in Naples, and were wont annually to elect a chief (Capo Lazzaro), who was formally recognised by the government.