History
Italy proclaimed its unification in 1861. Under Mussolini, Italy remained a
fascist dictatorship between 1922 and 1945. In 1946, Italy became a republic,
and in 1948, Italy’s government became a democracy with a president, a prime
minister and a parliament. Italy’s government is run by a coalition of its
numerous political parties, and since World War II, Italy has been governed by
more than 40 separate coalitions. The leader of each coalition government is
selected to serve as prime minister.
Each new government in Italy is faced with numerous and frequent demands
for change. These demands manifest in the form of strikes or demonstrations
that are generally non-violent. As a U.S. and NATO representative, you should
stay away from involvement in any political demonstration. The Status of Forces
Agreement (SOFA) prohibits your involvement of any political demonstration or
campaign. During a political campaign, banners and posters are displayed
throughout the city, and it is a serious offence to tear down or deface any of this
material.
According to legend, the Greek colony Neopolis was founded about 600 B.C.
and sprang up around the tomb of the siren Parthenope. Although conquered
by the Romans in 327 B.C., the city retained good relations with Athens. The
city was considered to be a rich cultural center and many affluent Romans
maintained a winter residence in the area of what is today known as Napoli or
Naples.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the population of Naples was subject to
numerous conquerors from throughout Europe. Gothic, Byzantine and
Lombard influence was felt in Naples and under the Dukes of Naples (763-1139)
city enjoyed a period of independence. In 1140, Naples fell under the rule of
Swabian and Norman Kings that lasted until 1266 which marked the beginning
of Angevin and Aragon rule. In 1504 Naples became a province of the Spanish
Kingdom. With the exception of the two brief upheavals, (the Partenopean
Republic in 1799 and Giuseppe Bonaparte and Gioacchino Murat for 1806-1815),
Naples remained the capital until the liberation of Italy by Garibaldi in 1860.
After the subsequent unification of Italy, the people of Naples voted for
annexation into the new kingdom of Italy.
Culture shock expresses the feeling of not knowing what or how to do things in a
new environment and the feeling of culture shock normally sets in after the first
few weeks of coming to a new place. It is a normal, predictable phenomenon.
Everything is different: the language, the customs; not knowing how to use the
telephone or the bus. It is a great opportunity for learning and acquiring new
perspectives. You may feel sad or lonely. Your sleep habits will be out of synch
and you or your family members may feel angry or irritable. You may begin to
develop a sense of insecurity or inadequacy. Many of the things you’ve heard
or assumed about your new environment may turn out not to meet your
expectations. These are normal symptoms associated with the huge change
that is taking place in your life and it is important to realize that these feelings
are temporary. Soon you will begin to adapt and understand many aspects of
the new culture and develop a sense of balance as you settle into your job and
your routines. You’ll realize that the differences between this culture and your
previous one are significant.
Some people deal with the culture differences quickly and easily. Other need
more time. Do not worry. Do not try to do too much all at once. Set your own
pace and keep an open mind. Here are some positive strategies for combating
stress produced by culture shock:
* Be patient, as you experience the process of adaptating to new situations.
* Develop a hobby
* Don’t forget the good things you already have!
* Learn to be constructive. If you encounter an unfavorable environment, don’t
put yourself in that position again. Be easy on yourself.
* Learn to include a regular form of physical activity in your routine. This will
help combat the sadness and loneliness in a constructive manner. Exercise,
swim, or take an aerobics class.
* Relaxation and meditation have proven to be positive activities for people
who are experiencing periods of stress.
* Allow yourself to feel sad about the things that you have left behind, but
maintain contact with your friends and family. This will give you a feeling
of belonging, and you will help reduce your feelings of loneliness.
* Begin to integrate with your new culture. Learn the language. Volunteer
in community activities that allow you to practice the language that you are
learning. This will help you feel less stress about language and useful at the
same time.
* Remember, you are not alone. Each week many new people arrive in Italy
and are faced with the same transition challenges. Pay attention to
relationships with your family and at work. They will serve as support for you
in difficult times.
* If you feel stressed, look for help.
There is always someone or some service available to help you. Each week
many new people arrive in Italy and are faced with the same transition
challenges. Visit with them. If you’re having problems dealing with culture
shock, your command and Fleet and Family Support Center are excellent
resources to help you through this sometimes difficult process.
Look at this assignment as a rare opportunity. The majority of people who
visit Italy do so in a rush and see the majority country from the inside of a bus
or train. Your experience will offer you a more accurate view of life in Italy,
and here you will find friends and experiences that will last a lifetime. You
do not have to become an Italian. Italians expect you to be different, and they
respect the fact that Americans have their own way of doing things. This
two-way understanding is only possible if based on mutual respect and
understanding.
Last Modified: 16 May 2011