Italy 1

Flashcards about Italian culture and identity.

Italianness

The evolving notion of a unified Italian identity, which did not fully emerge until the 19th century despite Italy's ancient history.

Historical development ( Italian Identity)

Italy's fragmented past, influenced by the legacy of the Roman Empire, feudalism, and regionalism, has impacted its national identity.

Geographical diversity ( Italian Identity)

Italy's physical geography, from mountains to coastlines, has led to distinct cultural, linguistic, and regional identities within the country.

Regionalism ( Italian Identity)

The persistence of regional differences and how they have shaped Italy’s culture and economy.

Risorgimento

A period of political and social upheaval that led to the unification of Italy in 1861.

Giuseppe Mazzini, Giuseppe Garibaldi, and Count Camillo di Cavour

Key figures in the movement for the unification of Italy.

The Roman Empire ( Italian Identity)

The ancient legacy of Roman law, governance, and culture laid the groundwork for the future Italian nation, influencing not only Italy but much of Europe.

The Renaissance ( Italian Identity)

This cultural revival, particularly in the 14th to 17th centuries, helped shape Italian identity through advances in art, science, and philosophy.

Medieval feudalism ( Italian Identity)

The feudal system, which fragmented Italy into various local powers, played a significant role in shaping regional identities.

The Risorgimento (19th century) ( Italian Identity)

This was the most crucial movement for Italian unification, driven by both social and political forces, including the desire for independence from foreign rule and the creation of a unified state.

World War II and the post-war period ( Italian Identity)

After the collapse of fascism and the fall of Mussolini’s regime, the Italian Republic was established in 1946, which further shaped Italian national identity as it transitioned to a democratic and modern state.

The Alps

Mountains in the north that create natural barriers, leading to distinct cultural and linguistic groups.

Tuscany and Umbria

Regions known for their agricultural traditions and historical cities.

Sicily and Naples

Regions with distinct Mediterranean influences.

Northern Italy

More industrialized and economically prosperous, with major cities like Milan, Turin, and Venice driving the economy through manufacturing, finance, and commerce.

Southern Italy

Less industrialized and more dependent on agriculture and tourism.

Culture of Northern Italy

Tends to have a more Germanic influence due to its historical connections with the Holy Roman Empire and other northern European powers.

Culture of Southern Italy

Has a more Mediterranean and Arab influence, shaped by centuries of foreign domination.

Social structures in Northern Italy

More urbanized and progressive.

Social structures in Southern Italy

Maintained more traditional, rural lifestyles and social structures.

Industrialization of Northern Italy

Rapid industrial development led to increased wealth, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.

Roman Law

Legal concepts, such as civil law, that continue to influence modern legal systems today.

Roman architecture

Engineering feats, such as aqueducts, roads, and monumental buildings like the Colosseum.

Jewish community in Italy

Jews are believed to have settled in Rome as early as the 2nd century BCE.

Ghetto system

Segregated Jewish populations, was established in various Italian cities, notably in Venice in the 16th century, precisely in 1516.

Treatment of Jews under Fascist rule

Italian Jews faced severe persecution, including the implementation of anti- Semitic laws and deportation to concentration camps during World War II.