THE ITALIAN AMERICANS
EPISODES 1 & 2
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 @ 6:00PM
Episode 1: La Famiglia Roots (1880 – 1910)
A brief history of the Italian Risorgimento provides the context for the great flight from the mezzogiorno region, as well as the roots of the first generation’s distinctive psychology. Through the travels of Italian migrant workers, we understand the transnational nature of these “Birds of Passage.” By the late 19th century, Italians begin to put down roots. “Little Italy’s” spring up in urban areas throughout the U.S. But the first generation holding onto their language and culture are branded as “outsiders” and mistrusted by non-Italians.
EPISODE TWO: Becoming American (1914–1930)
At the turn of the 20th century, over 4 million Italians immigrate to America to start new lives. Although mistrustful of government institutions, parents send their children to public school to succeed in America.
Leonard Covello is forced to give up his “old world” ways and adapt American mores, including changing his name; Arturo Giovannitti, a new immigrant to America, leads the largest labor strike of 1912, where Italian Americans push for better working conditions and decent wages.
