The phenomenon of the “Rondinelle” represents a peculiar migratory model within the context of Italian emigration. These were seasonal migrants, primarily from Veneto and Friuli, who traveled to Argentina to join in the harvest and then returned to Italy at the end of the season. This type of migration reduced the economic risks associated with permanent emigration, allowing workers to maintain ties to their homeland and families. The Rondinelle also created an emulative effect, encouraging others to follow the same route due to the success achieved by the first migrants. While this form of seasonal migration had a positive economic impact for some families, it was insufficient to address the structural problems of rural communities, highlighting once again the complexity of Italian emigration.

Annotated bibliography:
Bevilacqua, Piero, et al. Storia dell’emigrazione italiana. Vol. 1: Partenze. Donzelli Editore, 2001.
Franzina, Emilio. Gli italiani al nuovo mondo: L’emigrazione italiana in America, 1492-1942. Mondadori, 1995.

A flexible and personal journey

It doesn’t matter where you start or which stage you choose to explore first, each point will tell you an important part of “La nostra storia altrove”. You can explore our cultural roots or focus on the social and economic impact of the phenomenon. The important thing is to reach the end, piecing together a great historical puzzle that tells us who we are and where we come from.