Italian Louisiana: History, Heritage & Tradition (American Heritage)

This book had little, if any, information in it about Italian/Sicilian "Heritage and Tradition" in NOLA. The title is misleading. It is mostly about very detailed accounts of the old time crooked white politicians and the crooked white NOLA police force with lynchings of Italians, and fixed court proceedings thrown in. My Sicilian great-grandparents immigrated to NOLA in 1890. MY great-grandfather was a fruit merchant on the docks; my great-grandmother ran an Italian boarding house in the French Quarter. Very disappointed I could not learn more about their surroundings in NOLA and did not finish this book.

The author focuses almost exclusively on one event and the brief period leading up to it. I am from Louisiana, descendent of Sicilian-born grandparents, and was interested in reading about the historical criteria that lured my family to Louisiana. I also wanted to learn more about the issues surrounding their immigrant experience thoughout the 100 years of making their way in Louisiana, and doing it outside of New Orleans: first in the rural areas in central Louisiana then in Shreveport.There was nothing in this book relevant to my family. A lost opportunity to tell what I imagine is a very interesting story.

This is an unbiased look at the Italian immigrant experience in Louisiana, including controversies that affected the relationship between the U.S. and Italy during the period of heaviest immigration. Historian Alan Gauthreaux examines several key events, providing documented details as well as the author’s educated speculation on the unknown. A recommended read for students of Southern history, particularly Louisiana’s, as well as all American Italians and those lovers of Italian culture. Includes an extensive list of primary sources and a bibliography that should encourage further reading.

I grew up in and around New Orleans and was therefore excited to read this account of Italian immigrants. It did not disappoint! Well written and very informative account of Italian life in a very controversial time. I have recommended this book to several Atlanta based Italians as well as the everyday American. I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next! Yes, he has been working on another book so I hear..keep a watch out if you like true history folks!!

I couldn't put it down. Italian Louisiana is a very well written book encompassing some rich history of Italian Louisiana families. I actually came across it while researching my family tree and genealogy. There were several pieces of information that gave me more insight of my Italian Ancestors who settled in the New Orleans, St. Bernard & surrounding areas. As I neared the end of the book, I wished for more... Loved it. Can't wait for his next book! Petrina

I brought the book to my instructor, who’s the author and he was excited that it was a hard copy.It did take a while to come.I can’t wait to start reading it as my father grew up in New Orleans and was looked down on because he was Italian.

Informative. Excellent background.

historical detective style book about the Italian culture and real life events near the turn of the century in New Orleans. Well written