AmericanItalian

American Italian, also known as Italian American, refers to Americans of Italian descent. The term encompasses a diverse population whose roots lie in the Italian peninsula and its diaspora.

Migration from Italy to the United States began in earnest in the late 19th century, with many coming from Southern Italy and Sicily seeking economic opportunity. They settled in urban neighborhoods such as New York's Little Italy, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Boston, building communities around churches, family networks, and mutual aid societies. A second wave followed World War II, and later generations increasingly integrated into broader American society while maintaining cultural ties.

Culturally, Italian Americans have helped shape American life through cuisine (pizza, pasta, espresso), religion (Roman Catholic parishes and feast days), and the arts. Family often remains central, with strong kin networks and traditions such as Sunday meals and festival celebrations. In some cities, Italian American neighborhoods influenced local labor movements, architecture, and business.

Language use has shifted over generations. While Italian or regional dialects (Sicilian, Neapolitan) persist in some families, most Italian Americans are primarily English-speaking. Heritage language programs and media have helped preservation among some communities.

Today Italian American communities are dispersed across the United States, with historic concentrations in the Northeast (New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Massachusetts) and sizable populations in California and the Midwest.

Notable Italian American figures span politics, entertainment, sports, and business. Organizations such as the National Italian American Foundation and the Order Sons of Italy in America promote heritage education, cultural events, and public policy advocacy.