Italians have shaped the culture of America throughout this great nation, and
particularly here in Los Angeles. Please welcome to our show an expert in this field, Marianna Gatto, Director of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles & Author, The Italian Americans Of Los Angeles. And let me tell you, this book is incredible and comprehensive. Marianna seems to have uncovered every inch of Italian heritage throughout this great city.

Since Italians first came to this region, they have been agriculturalists, pioneers, outlaws and dreamers, and have brought with them tremendous culture, science, culinary expertise, and vibrancy to a variety of neighborhoods in Los Angeles, from the ports in Long Beach and San Pedro up to the northern most sections of Los Angeles.

Marianna's comprehensive book talks about the trailblazers, winemakers, the original Italian Hall and Little Italy, Hollywood, and of course the secret History that she has uncovered. It wasn't easy being the first Italians to grace the soil here, but hard work, family, and perseverance carried them through. Today, Italians throughout Los Angeles are honored and respected for their many contributions here, much of it heralded at the #IAMLA Museum that Marianna has dedicated much of her life to running in downtown LA.

Please welcome Marianna Gatto to our show today on our LittleItalyPodcast,
LittleItaly Of LA Podcast and Deborah Kobylt LIVE.

I'm your host, Deborah Zara Kobylt, and it's my honor to welcome you here