Italian emigration and Italian communities abroad is an essential part of modern Italy’s history, whether it’s the movement of people within the country, across the European Union, or overseas.
This migration has shaped not only Italy but also the places where Italians have settled. The story of Italian immigrants has become iconic, depicted in famous films like The Godfather, which shows the lives of Italian-American families, and Nuovomondo (The Golden Door), which captures the journey of Italian emigrants to America in the early 20th century. These stories reflect life struggles, ambitions, and contributions of Italians who left their homeland in search of better opportunities, profoundly influencing Italian communities around the world.
Let’s dive into the waves of Italian emigration and discover why people moved and where they built new Italian communities.
1. Before Italy was a nation (Early 19th century)
Why They Left:
Before Italy became a unified country in 1861, it was divided into smaller states and kingdoms. People from rural, often impoverished areas—especially from southern Italy—faced political turmoil, economic hardship, and heavy taxes. So, they packed their bags in search of stability and opportunity.
Where They Went:
Many headed to places like South America, particularly Argentina and Brazil, where new agricultural lands offered hope.
2. Post-Unification Exodus (Late 19th century to early 20th century)
Why They Left:
When Italy finally unified in 1861, many hoped things would improve, but economic disparities between the north and south deepened. The southern regions, in particular, were struggling with poor agricultural yields and widespread poverty. Life was tough, and natural disasters like earthquakes only added to the difficulties.
Where They Went:
Between 1876 and 1915, a staggering 14 million Italians left their homeland. Many headed to the United States, especially to cities like New York and Chicago, as well as to Argentina and Brazil, where booming industries and expanding agriculture offered jobs. The allure of the “American Dream” was particularly strong.
3. Early 20th century and the Italian diaspora
Why They Left:
The early 1900s brought industrialization in Italy, but the economy couldn’t support everyone. World War I added chaos, with political instability and poverty making life unbearable for many. The rise of fascism under Mussolini in the 1920s also pushed people to seek freedom and security abroad.
Where They Went:
While Italian immigrants continued to flow into the United States, many also moved to Canada and Australia, looking for stability and better opportunities. France and Switzerland also attracted Italians seeking work in factories and construction, especially in border regions.
4. After World War II: The boom and bust (1940s–1960s)
Why They Left:
Post-war Italy was devastated. Cities lay in ruins, and the economy was on its knees. The Italian government, alongside other European nations, signed agreements with countries like Germany and Switzerland, allowing Italians to work as “guest workers” in construction and factories, contributing to the rebuilding of Europe.
Where They Went:
Northern Europe became a major destination for Italian workers, especially in Germany and Switzerland. Meanwhile, Canada, Australia, and Argentina also saw a surge in Italian immigrants, many of whom started new lives in bustling cities like Toronto, Melbourne, and Buenos Aires.
Biggest Italian communities outside of Italy today:
- United States: Italian-Americans are one of the largest ethnic groups in the U.S. with strong communities in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Italian culture is embedded in American life, from food to festivals.
- Argentina: Over 60% of Argentinians have Italian ancestry. The Italian influence on Argentine food, culture, and even language is profound.
- Brazil: São Paulo is home to one of the largest Italian communities in the world. Italians helped shape the culture and the booming coffee industry in southern Brazil.
- Australia: After WWII, Italians helped build Australia’s infrastructure and enriched its cultural landscape, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney.
- France and Switzerland: Proximity made France and Switzerland natural destinations for Italian workers, especially after WWII, and many Italian families have settled in cities like Nice, Marseille, and Zurich.
- Canada: Cities like Toronto and Montreal have thriving Italian neighborhoods, with deep-rooted connections to Italy.
Interestingly, some Italian communities abroad focus more on preserving the regional cultures and dialects of their home provinces—such as Sicilian, Calabrian, and Venetian—rather than the Italian language itself, keeping local traditions alive across generations.
Are you part of these Italian expat communities abroad and want to explore your chances of returning or studying in Italy?
Read our dedicated article to learn more about how you can reconnect with Italy and discover exciting opportunities!
