The American South and the Italian Mezzogiorno: Essays in Comparative History

The essays in this volume explore the prospects for comparison between the American South and the Italian Mezzogiorno-two regions with similarities in their processes of modernization, but also with striking social and cultural differences. Leading historians consider the comparability of issues as diverse as the stereotypes relating of the two souths, the ideology of landed elites, the treatment of laborers on large estates, the importance ofgender in the understanding of social relations, and the connections between progressive political forces and between migratory movements across the Atlantic. The essays suggest lines of enquiry for future comparative studies of the American South and the Mezzogiorno through careful juxtaposition of individual case studies focused on specific issues.

Author Biography: Enrico Dal Lago is Lecturer in American History at the National University of Ireland, Galway.

Author Biography: Rick Halpern is Reader in United States History at University College London.