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Description

Italians first came to California in large numbers with the Gold Rush. While most found little gold, they did find a mother lode in farming, fishing, commerce, and winemaking. Italian Americans in California documents their experiences, which were markedly different from those of their compatriots elsewhere in the United States. Through stories set in seven Italian communities throughout California, the film examines how economic and social mobility became possible for many Italians in California. It is also a look at how immigrant identity is maintained and transformed as immigrants become assimilated into mainstream America. The documentary is based on extensive research and weaves together oral histories by community members with scholarly analyses which provide historical context.