Abstract

From the colonial period to the present, Italians have migrated to the American nation, but that migration has been irregular. Throughout modern history Italy has been the source of emigration, especially to the United States. In recent years, Italy’s population has stabilized and immigration to the United States is minimal. This essay will examine the irregular pattern of Italian immigration to the United States, its causes, and why and when it developed. Americanimmigration policy will be examined as it affected Italian immigration. Interwoven in the text will be official census data accompanied by an analysis of that data. Finally, concluding commentary will be made concerning the degree of Italian identity in the contemporary, diverse United States.