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Steinbeck's 1936 Articles on Migrant Workers Published in Italian

publication · 2026-05-01

A collection of seven articles by John Steinbeck, originally written in 1936 and now published in Italian as 'I nomadi' (il Saggiatore, 110 pages, €16), examines the lives of migrant, nomadic, and seasonal workers. The release coincides with May Day, a holiday originating in the US in 1867 to celebrate the eight-hour workday, which was achieved through violent struggles. The text draws parallels between historical labor movements and contemporary political dynamics, referencing figures like Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and the broader protest music tradition. The articles highlight the erasure of American socialist and civil rights history by right-wing ideologies exemplified by Donald Trump and his billionaire circle.

Key facts

  • John Steinbeck wrote seven articles in 1936 about migrant workers.
  • The articles are collected in the volume 'I nomadi' published by il Saggiatore.
  • The book costs €16 and has 110 pages.
  • May Day originated in the US in 1867 to celebrate the eight-hour workday.
  • The eight-hour workday was achieved through battles, shootings, and hangings.
  • Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez is mentioned as a contemporary political figure.
  • Joan Baez and Bob Dylan are cited as part of protest music tradition.
  • Donald Trump and his billionaire circle are criticized for erasing socialist history.

Entities

Artists

  • John Steinbeck
  • Joan Baez
  • Bob Dylan

Institutions

  • il Saggiatore

Locations

  • United States
  • America

Sources