History tells us that Italians were exploring the Americas as far back as the 1600s, and many were not only discovering new lands, but also settling here. Over the following centuries, thousands of people would make their way across the ocean seeking new opportunities in what would become the United States, particularly in the late 19th century and early 20th century.
The newcomers brought with them the food, language, and customs that would help shape entire communities. Many of these "Little Italy" neighborhoods are still thriving today.
