The overall theme of this 1986 collection of papers is “the search for the common roots between Argentina and Italy.” The first four explore the influence of such Italian intellectuals as Vico, Ferri, and the positivists on Argentine thought. The second four deal with Italian emigration to Argentina, both from 1875 to 1925 and in post-World War II decades. Another four explore specific themes of emigration. The last four touch on the impact of ideology on emigration and immigration politics in both Italy and Argentina.
Undoubtedly, the book is almost exclusively an exploration of the impact of Italians on Argentina. Immigration historians will be particularly interested in some essays. Luigi De Rosa’s synthesis of Italian emigration from the early nineteenth century to the advent of fascism provides a comprehensive summation. Anna Maria Birindelli’s article on emigration since World War II takes up a phenomenon usually underrated in emigration studies. The detailed study of chain emigration from Agnone by Romolo Gandolfo provides some insights into the specific dynamics affecting Italian communities and the importance of community ties in recreating viable institutions in Argentina. Angelo Trento’s study of changing perceptions of Brazil and Argentina as destinations for Italians from 1860 to 1920 is important in regard to emigration and the general discourse of Italian nationalism. Finally, Gianfausto Rosoli’s essay on the 1911 conflict between Italy and Argentina over health requirements for immigrants offers some understanding of the differing impact of nationalism on both countries.
The essays do not introduce new methodologies, nor do they provide unexpected revelations. Rather, some offer useful syntheses, and some, dealing with specific topics, increase the existing body of evidence. Moreover, the book, although written in Italian and Spanish, is a welcome corrective to the common misperception in this country that Italian emigration was directed almost exclusively toward the United States. Until the turn of the century, Brazil and Argentina were the preferred destinations of Italians, southerners included. The book will provide a useful anthology for immigration scholars in Italy and the Americas.
