The mass emigration from the South was one of the consequences of the annexation of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies to the Sabaud kingdom. and of the subsequent policies of discrimination against the South.
Certainly, our emigrants did not find a welcome with open arms and were subjected to discrimination and violence.
Until you look into the story and its premise until you go back and find out what happened in Italy, what happened in America, and what happened during their journey, you will never be able to understand. Prof Frank M Sorrentino. See his presentation Italian American Stereotypes In Media.
After the unification of Italy, many people from the South emigrated in search of work and better economic opportunities. It is estimated that between the end of the 19th century and the 20s of the 20th century, around 9 million Italians emigrated abroad, with the majority coming from the southern regions.
The New Colossus
Poe,m by Emma Lazzarus.
| The new Colossus Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame. With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command. The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame, “Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore, Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door! |  |
No Matter What
| Our Italian roots, Connect us to the past, And to the future even more. The culture, the food, The language we speak, Are a part of us. A unique heritage, To preserve and share, With the whole world. |  |
| This sculpture by Bruno Catalano represents very well the conditions of the emigrant I identify with. |  |