Archipelago: Italy Since 1945

Italy emerged from the Second World War in ruins, but by the 1960s, it had the fastest-growing economy in the world. In The Archipelago, historian John Foot chronicles Italy's tumultuous history from the post-war period to the present day, examining the corrupt and celebrated sides of the country. Italy has been at the center of innovation and change, a political laboratory, and has the constant ability to re-invent itself.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Italy emerged from the Second World War in ruins, divided, invaded, and economically broken, with some claiming it had ceased to exist. However, by the 1960s, it had the fastest-growing economy in the world. In The Archipelago, historian John Foot chronicles Italy's tumultuous history from the post-war period to the present day. He examines the silent assimilation of fascists into society after 1945, as well as the artistic peak of neorealist cinema. While often portrayed as a failed state on the margins of Europe, Italy has been at the center of innovation and change, serving as a political laboratory. This new history tells the fascinating story of a country always marked by scandal but with the constant ability to re-invent itself. Comprising original research and lively insights, The Archipelago chronicles the crises and modernizations of more than seventy years of post-war Italy, from its fields, factories, squares, and housing estates to Rome's political intrigue.

Introduction:
Italy's history is a fascinating tapestry of triumphs and challenges, from its ancient Roman Empire to its modern-day cultural and economic powerhouse. However, the country's path to prosperity has not been without its share of scandals and controversies. In this essay, we will explore some of the most scandalous events in Italian history, from political corruption to social unrest.

Political Corruption:
Political corruption has been a persistent issue in Italian politics for centuries. From the infamous Borgia family to the more recent scandals involving Silvio Berlusconi and his family, Italy has been plagued by corruption at all levels of government. One of the most notable scandals of the 20th century was the Tangentopoli scandal, which erupted in the 1990s and involved a network of political corruption and fraud. The scandal led to the resignation of several high-ranking officials, including the then-Prime Minister, Giulio Andreotti.

Social Unrest:
Social unrest has also been a significant feature of Italian history. From the workers' strikes of the 19th century to the more recent protests against austerity measures and economic inequality, Italy has seen its fair share of social upheaval. One of the most notable protests of recent years was the Occupy Wall Street movement, which inspired similar protests around the world.

Scandals in the Entertainment Industry:
The entertainment industry has also been a source of scandal in Italy. From the sex scandals involving celebrities to the corruption scandals involving film producers and distributors, Italy has seen its fair share of controversy. One of the most notable scandals of the 20th century was the Scopone affair, which involved the theft of millions of dollars from the Italian government by a group of corrupt officials.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Italian history is a rich and complex tapestry of scandal and controversy. While the country has faced numerous challenges and setbacks, it has also demonstrated a remarkable resilience and ability to reinvent itself. From political corruption to social unrest, Italy has been at the forefront of many of the most significant events of the 20th and 21st centuries. As we look to the future, it is important to remember the lessons of the past and work towards a more transparent and accountable government.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408893142