The Invention of Sicily: A Mediterranean History

The Invention of Sicily: A Mediterranean History by Jamie Mackay

This history of Sicily focuses more on the modern history. Early history is covered quickly. Things get slower during the plight of Sicily during the World Wars and part of the kingdom of Naples. The Mafia rose in the somewhat backwards region. The Mafia made sure that they were able to "buy" church property on the cheap. Mussolini nearly wiped them out. However, the US helped them get back into power. (There were plenty of new world connections back to the "old world".)

Sicily: An Island at the Crossroads of History

Sicily: An Island at the Crossroads of History by John Julius Norwich

Sicily occupies an interesting place in the globe. It is the ball that Italy's boot is kicking. It is close to Africa and Europe. It has rarely been independent. Romans, Greeks, Phoenicians, Spaniards, Arabs and many others have claimed part of the island at some time or another. A few thousand years ago, Syracuse in Sicily was a bustling metropolis, known for Archimedes and his scientific and mathematical achievements. Today, we are more likely to think of Palermo and the Mafia.

This book takes a broad view of Sicilian history, giving fairly balanced coverage to all periods from pre-history to the modern state.