essay

Caboto and other PARENTELA: the uses of the Italian-Canadian past

arrangiarsi : the italian immigration experience on canadaMontreal, Quebec, Canada • Published In 1992 • Pages: 37-61

By: Harney, Robert F..

Abstract
Harney describes in this article the need of Italian Canadians to establish for themselves a pedigree or sense of ITALIANITA (ethnicity) based on the manipulation of past historical events such as the exploits and adventures of various warriors, priests, and explorers of Italian descent. Of particular interest in this document is the way in which a pantheon of Italian Canadians heroes have been rediscovered and refurbished to meet contemporary needs. Chief among these, and given primary coverage in this study, is Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot), who serves as a symbol of Italian pride as the discoverer of Canada. Pride in this historical figure is expressed by Italian Canadians through the use of his name for various clubs, halls, and trails and the display of plaques and monuments in his honor.
Subjects
Reviews and critiques
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Cultural identity and pride
Status, role, and prestige
culture
Italian Canadians
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
North America
Sub Region
Regional, Ethnic and Diaspora Cultures
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Historian
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
John Beierle; 2000
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
fifteenth - mid-twentieth centuries
Coverage Place
Canada
Notes
Robert F. Harney
Includes bibliographical references (p. 59-61)
LCCN
89197577
LCSH
Italians--Canada