This historical dictionary covers Italy from the time of Napoleon to the present. It is strongest on the Risorgimento (the unification of Italy) and events onward. The preface, which focuses on politics and economics, is followed by a list of acronyms and abbreviations (essential for understanding Italian politics and economics), a map, and a detailed chronology. Cultural topics are then covered in entries for architecture, literature, music, and film. Neorealism receives separate coverage, though painting has no individual entry. One of the dictionary's most useful features is coverage of the populist movements so prominent in recent Italian politics. Immigration also has its own entry. Several major cultural figures, including Pier Paolo Pasolini and Luciano Pavarotti, have their own entries.

Sports receive notice under Calcio (soccer). Extensive cross-references are provided throughout this wide-ranging dictionary, which is followed by a substantial bibliography. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and two-year program students.