Categories: Podcast

Italians Swindled To New York

The unification of Italy in 1861 launched a new European nation promising to fulfill the dreams of Italians, yet millions of poor peasants still found themselves in economic desperation. By 1872, an army of speculators had invaded the countryside, hawking steamship tickets and promising fabulous riches in America. Thousands of immigrants fled to the New World, only to be abandoned upon arrival and forced to find work in hard labor. New York placed victims of deception at the State Emigrant Refuge on Ward’s Island as the secretary of state and the Italian prime minister sought to intervene. Through steel-eyed determination, many surmounted their status and became leaders in business and culture. Authors Joe Tucciarone and Ben Lariccia follow the early stages of mass Italian immigration and the fraudulent circumstances that brought them to New York Harbor.

Visit Our Shop

Podcast

Video

Bob

Recent Posts

Buona Pasqua From Italian Genealogy

Buona Pasqua from Italian Genealogy.  Hard to believe that we are in our seventh year.…

2 days ago

From Stromboli to America: A Journey of Heritage

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Charlie and Steve Bongiorno about their Italian roots and…

2 days ago

Jazz and Italian Heritage

In this engaging conversation, jazz singer Vanessa Racci shares her journey of exploring her Italian…

4 days ago

Generational Perspectives on Being Italian-American

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino engages with Dr. Gilda Rorro and Dr. Mary Rorro, a…

7 days ago

Italian Wine Classes – FAST

Join us on a journey to explore the allure of sparkling wine as we embark…

1 week ago

Exploring Toritto Bari: A Journey Through Time

The conversation explores the life and experiences of Rocco Scolamacchia, who grew up in Toritto,…

2 weeks ago