A sense of being Italian: the value of family history

Abstract

There has been an upsurge in interest in family history in Australia in recent times, especially since it ceased to be a shameful or embarrassing thing to have convict ancestors. Indeed, convict ancestry - especially if 'First Fleet' ancestry - has become a source of pride and celebration for many. Catherine Dewhirst's article 'A Sense of being Italian' demonstrates family history at its best - well researched, engaging and clearly propelled by the personal passion of the author. In this case, the focus is not convict origins but Italian heritage, something of personal meaning to so many Australians and of such historical significance to the nation.