" . . . a very fair and intelligent description of the vicissitudes of the two parties and students seeking a readable and jargon-free overview of the subject-matter should be directed to this text." ―History
"De Grand's study is exceptional in its comprehensive historical perspective . . . a revealing and evocative synthesis." ―Marion S. Miller
"De Grand is a useful guide to the complex history of the Italian left." ―Thomas R. Brooks, New York City Tribune
"An excellent overview of the vital Italian left-wing . . . " ―Book Reader
"This is a well-written, readable, rather detailed though not ponderous, discussion of the politics of the parties of the Italian Left in this century up to the present time." ―Perspective
" . . . will add immeasurably to our understanding of and appreciation for a country tormented at various times in the past century." ―Mediterranean Quarterly
" . . . well-written and extensively researched . . . De Grand illustrates a clear and obvious path of development on the Italian left . . . " ―L'Italo-Americano
"It is . . . a pleasure to note the appearance of Alexander De Grand's book . . . By providing an almost side-by-side summary of the thought and action of both parties . . . De Grand renders a unique contribution." ―American Historical Review
" . . . a good starting point for students of Italian history and politics, as well as anyone with an interest in the modern European Left. . . . It offers both a solid introduction to, and a persuasive interpretation of, its subject." ―Journal of Modern History
De Grand chronicles the history of the Italian Socialist and Communist parties―natural allies yet also enemies, in the struggle to reform society.

by Richard L Harris
Berman's sweeping history of socialist and social democratic movements across Europe provides helpful context for understanding the Italian left's evolution. Like De Grand's book, it offers a nuanced look at the complex interplay between reform and revolution.
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by Anthony V. Margavio
For a broader perspective on Italy's political and cultural landscape, Hooper's engaging portrait of the Italian national character is a great complement to De Grand's more focused study. You'll find illuminating parallels between the country's tumultuous 20th century politics and its deep-rooted social traditions.
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by Robert E. Quinn
While not directly about Italian politics, Greenblatt's Pulitzer-winning book explores how the rediscovery of a ancient Roman philosophical text helped catalyze the Renaissance - a pivotal era that shaped the ideological battlegrounds of the 20th century left. The sweeping historical perspective may appeal to fans of De Grand's work.
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by Kent Masterton Brown
Beevor's acclaimed history of the Spanish Civil War provides a gripping account of another pivotal 20th century struggle between socialist, communist, and fascist factions. The parallels and contrasts with the Italian left's trajectory will give you a richer understanding of the era's ideological conflicts.
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by Mary Ellen Johnson
While not a work of history, Lampedusa's classic novel captures the sweeping social changes that rocked Italy in the 19th century - changes that set the stage for the political upheavals you explored in De Grand's book. The Leopard's elegiac tone and its exploration of a noble family's decline may offer a refreshing change of pace.
View bookBorn 1938
Biography coming soon.
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