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The Italian Americans examines the distinctive qualities of one immigrant group's experience, and how over time these qualities have shaped and challenged America. Moving chronologically through history from the mid 19th century to present day, this series focuses on the unique history of Italian-Americans--the push-pull of balancing Italian traditions with American ideals and sensibilities. For those that made America home, their struggle to maintain a distinct Italian culture was guided by remarkably powerful ideals of family that had always been at the center of their lives. In the Italian family, the needs of the collective came before the individual--a value system often at odds with American ideals of freedom and personal choice. This clash of culture echoes through generations of Italian Americans, and as they entered positions of political, social and cultural influence, it has left its mark on the American landscape.
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