Montebelluna, Italy – A discussion exploring the enduring impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on American politics and its global reverberations is scheduled for March 11, 2026, at the MeVe – Memoriale Veneto della Grande Guerra. The event, titled “L’America al tempo di Trump: continuità e nuovi paradigmi” (America in the Time of Trump: Continuity and New Paradigms), will feature Dr. Alice Ciulla, a research fellow in U.S. History at the Department of Political Science, Roma Tre University.
The lecture arrives at a moment of heightened international tension, offering a timely opportunity to examine the historical roots of current geopolitical challenges. Dr. Ciulla’s presentation aims to contextualize present-day issues within long-term trends, identifying the pathways that have shaped the contemporary political landscape. The event is part of a broader series, “Il ‘900 che non passa. Storia, memorie, presente” (The 20th Century That Doesn’t Pass: History, Memories, Present), which explores the complexities of historical memory and its influence on modern political discourse.
The Enduring Legacy of Trumpism
Donald Trump’s four years in office, from 2017 to 2021, fundamentally altered the American political landscape. His presidency was characterized by a populist appeal, a rejection of established political norms, and a nationalist foreign policy. While his term officially ended in January 2021, the influence of “Trumpism” continues to shape the Republican Party and American politics more broadly. His re-entry into the political arena, with a bid for the presidency in 2024 and a likely continued presence in 2025 and beyond, as noted in research by Dr. Ciulla, suggests that his impact will be felt for years to come. As detailed in her work, Trump’s rhetoric and policies have the potential to energize populist movements worldwide.
The core tenets of Trumpism include a skepticism towards globalization, a focus on national sovereignty, and a willingness to challenge traditional alliances. His economic policies, marked by tax cuts and deregulation, aimed to stimulate economic growth, while his immigration policies were characterized by stricter enforcement and a focus on border security. Trump’s use of social media to bypass traditional media outlets and directly communicate with his supporters was a defining feature of his presidency, and a tactic that continues to be emulated by other populist leaders.
Continuity and Change in American Politics
Dr. Ciulla’s lecture will likely explore the extent to which Trump’s presidency represented a departure from established American political traditions, and the extent to which it built upon existing trends. Populism, for example, has a long history in the United States, dating back to the late 19th century. Figures like William Jennings Bryan and George Wallace tapped into similar sentiments of economic anxiety and resentment towards elites. The event organizers emphasize the importance of understanding these historical continuities in order to make sense of the present.
Yet, Trump’s presidency also introduced new elements to American politics. His attacks on the media, his questioning of democratic institutions, and his embrace of conspiracy theories were unprecedented in modern American history. His willingness to challenge long-standing norms of political behavior raised concerns about the health of American democracy. The January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, fueled by false claims of election fraud, underscored the fragility of these institutions and the potential for political violence.
The Role of Historical Memory
The broader series of events, “Il ‘900 che non passa. Storia, memorie, presente,” highlights the importance of historical memory in shaping contemporary political debates. The series, in collaboration with ISTRESCO APS, aims to reflect on how past events are remembered and reinterpreted in the present. This is particularly relevant in the context of the 20th century, which was marked by profound trauma and upheaval, including two world wars, the Holocaust, and the Cold War. The organizers note that the 20th century “seems to re-propose itself under new guises,” suggesting that the lessons of the past are often forgotten or distorted.
The series also addresses the challenges of memory in the context of the Holocaust, the post-Soviet transition in Eastern Europe, and the “American Dream.” These themes are interconnected, as they all involve questions of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The series aims to provide a space for critical reflection on these issues, and to promote a more nuanced understanding of the past.
Italy and the Global Right
Dr. Ciulla’s research extends beyond the United States, examining the connections between Italy and the global right. Her work explores the rise of populism in Italy and its relationship to similar movements in other parts of the world. Italy has experienced a resurgence of right-wing politics in recent years, with parties like the League and Brothers of Italy gaining increasing support. These parties often espouse nationalist, anti-immigrant, and Eurosceptic views, echoing themes that were central to Trump’s appeal.
The relationship between Italy and the United States under Trump was complex. While Trump often criticized European allies for not spending enough on defense, he also expressed admiration for Italian leaders like Matteo Salvini. The rise of populism in both countries suggests a broader trend of dissatisfaction with established political elites and a desire for change. Dr. Ciulla’s research sheds light on the dynamics of this transatlantic alliance and its implications for the future of global politics.
Event Details and Accessibility
The lecture, “L’America al tempo di Trump: continuità e nuovi paradigmi,” will take place on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 8:30 PM at the MeVe – Memoriale Veneto della Grande Guerra in Montebelluna. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended due to limited seating. Interested attendees can make reservations by calling 0423 617539 or 0423 617479, or by emailing [email protected]. The event is geared towards adults and is part of the larger “Il ‘900 che non passa. Storia, memorie, presente” series.
The MeVe – Memoriale Veneto della Grande Guerra is open year-round, Tuesday through Friday from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM. During the winter months (Saturday and Sunday), it is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and during the summer months, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Admission fees are €7.00 for adults, €5.00 for reduced rates, and €18.00 for families. A special rate of €5.00 is available for grandparents and grandchildren visiting on weekdays.
Further events at the MeVe include “Novecento on Air: Voci, Suoni, Trasmissioni” (20th Century on Air: Voices, Sounds, Transmissions) on March 15, 2026, and “Lo Stato del Sistema Costituzionale Statunitense” (The State of the U.S. Constitutional System) on March 19, 2026. These events continue the exploration of historical and contemporary issues, offering a platform for scholarly discussion and public engagement.
The next confirmed event following Dr. Ciulla’s lecture is “Novecento on Air: Voci, Suoni, Trasmissioni” on March 15, 2026, offering a guided tour of the “Communicare in guerra. Segnali, Codici, Propaganda” (Communicating in War: Signals, Codes, Propaganda) exhibition. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the enduring legacy of Trumpism and the challenges facing American democracy in the comments below.
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