Modern Italy in Historical Perspective

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A sense of failure pervades Italian history: the failure of the Liberal State after Unification to democratize, mobilize and modernize Italian politics, economy and society; the rise of Fascism as a reflection of these shortcomings; the problems of the post-war Republic, tainted by corruption, organized crime and terrorism. The notion has arisen of Italy as a deviant nation, unable or unwilling to follow the normal' path of state development. These perceptions are the stuff of historical debate, and it is with the ebb and flow of interpretation that this study is principally concerned. In each of the three sections - Liberal Italy, Fascist Italy and Italy from the Occupation until the end of the First Republic' - Nick Carter describes and evaluates the historiographical contours. The politics, economic developments, and society and culture of each period are thoroughly analysed, and an overview of recent research into hitherto largely neglected areas of study, such as gender, is also included.
This book is an invaluable guide for those wishing to get swiftly to the heart of the issues in modern Italian history.

Reviews

Modern Italy in Historical Perspective is an impressively researched, well-written and accessible portrait, one that combines history and historiography, but with emphasis on the latter. In so doing the author draws on a wide series of sources and, bearing in mind that in Italy history has always been highly politicized, he keeps a sensible distance from the stagnating waters of ideological conformism, to borrow the phrase of Emilio Gentile...The bibliography alone is most helpful for those who wish to become familiar with the depth of work on modern Italy, referencing is very accurate and a useful glossary at the end makes Italian specific terms more understandable. Carters book is a work of synthesis which well deserves translation into Italian and taking its place as an instant classic alongside works by Bosworth, Mack Smith and Ginsborg. -- Luisa Morettin, King's College London * Australian Journal of Politics and History *

Author Bio

Nick Carter is Senior Lecturer in modern European History at the University of Wales, Newport. He is a specialist in modern European History, particularly Italian History and European Integration.