This artifact announces a dual feast in commemoration of Italian war veterans and in celebration of American Independence Day on July 4th, 1924. The events were to be held aboard the Giolio Cesare, a steamship that had safely delivered 2,169 souls to Ellis Island six days prior.  Every aspect of this event proclaims the successful camaraderie between America and her Italian citizens. The meta symbolism is nearly overwhelming. The Italian veterans of the First World War were welcomed into the celebration of American Independence, indicating the United States’ acceptance of and gratitude for her European brothers and sisters. Furthermore, the celebration was held aboard an active ship for immigration transportation, functioning as a very literal symbol of the two countries’ fraternity. It is important to note the constant presence of music surrounding Italian-American celebration. The ship was in fact christened after Handle’s 18th century Italian opera of the same name, Giulio Cesare, a piece that had experienced a resurgence of international popularity in the late 1800’s. Additionally, the feasts were to be held around vocal and instrumental concerts, during which time a contest would be held and a woman would be elected “Queen of the Sea” –  a rather allegorical figure of the Italian-American union. 

 

References

 

The statue of liberty & ellis island foundation, inc. Retrieved 10/28, 2013, from http://www.ellisisland.org/shipping/FormatshipVoyages.asp?lineshipid=21851

 

 

Metadata tags: July 4th; Independence Day; immigration; cruise; Giulio Cesare; veterans; Italian-American; World War I; WWI; First World War; victory; American hero; opera; musical performance; celebration; fraternity; pursuit of happiness