Transatlantic Modern Consumerisms: Italian Goods and Commercial Cultures in Postwar America, 1949–1972

Simone Cinotto, University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo, and guest speakers

Based on a special issue of the Italian American Review guest-edited by Simone Cinotto and Cristina Iuli, this presentation will address Made in Italy and the unique relationship and exchange of commodities, tastes, styles, and ideas between Italy and the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. The geopolitical context of the Cold War provided a framework for Italy’s modernization and its alignment with transatlantic values. Celebrated in the United States as a second Italian Renaissance following the devastations of World War II, Made in Italy conveyed the emergence of a new Italian way of creating, both a nation-building and nation-branding strategy. The special issue explores the network that facilitated this exchange—ranging from art exhibits to transatlantic liners—where these goods were showcased, and the key figures in the worlds of fashion, design, and commerce.

Research dissemination event sponsored by the National Interest Research Project (PRIN) “Transatlantic Transfers: The Italian Presence in Postwar America”—Polytechnic of Milan, Roma Tre University, University of Eastern Piedmont, University of Gastronomic Sciences Pollenzo.