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xix Acknowledgments The idea for this book came to me after reading the work of George L. Mosse, whose studies, like Ariadne’s thread, were able to guide me during some difficult moments. A heartfelt thanks to Emilio Gentile; his comments, which always led to queries and new considerations, encouraged me to look at issues from multiple points of view and to critically evaluate interpretations that are often taken for granted. I express my deepest gratitude to Simona Colarizi for her unflagging attention to every detail, her ability to mete out criticism and encouragement with perspicacity and gentleness, her interest, not only in the methodological and interpretational problems of the research, but the practical and human problems common among young researchers, which have made this book possible. Many people and institutions also helped me complete this book. I was facilitated in this endeavor thanks to the advice of friends and scholars, the cooperation of numerous librarians, and the courteous helpfulness of the officials at the Italian Central State Archive. Of the many people to whom I am indebted, particular thanks goes to the people in the Italian Studies Department at Brown University who gave me the opportunity to continue my studies and introduced me to many of the positive aspects of the American university system. Collaborating with Suzanne Stewart-Steinberg and the activities I participated in at the Cogut Center were crucial for broadening my interests and rethinking many aspects of my research. My deepest thanks to John Tortorice who, during my stay at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, first proposed publishing the book in English. It is to him that I owe its publication in the United States. Our xix close friendship and his continued support and advice have been enormously helpful throughout this endeavor. In closing, I would like to thank Suzanne Dingee and Jennifer Pudney for their fine work in translating an often complex Italian manuscript into English. I would also like to thank Stephen Marth who edited the translation of the book with great competence and precision, not limiting himself to a simple rereading of the manuscript in its pre-publication phase, but working closely together with me to resolve any interpretive problems. xx Acknowledgments ...

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