During the 19th century, an outdated aristocracy and poor farming conditions throughout the southern part of Italy drove many poor Italians to immigrate to North American in search of a better life. Like most immigrant groups, the Italians endured prejudice and discrimination in the United States before finally being accepted. This book provides an in-depth look at the Italian immigrant experience in American. It explains how early arrivals helped make conditions better for later immigrants. The book also examines the prominent role Italian Americans have had in shaping the society we live in today. Book jacket.