Saturday, October 3, 2026

Italian American Heritage Month: Fiorello LaGuardia

We’re kicking off the third day of Italian American Heritage Month by highlighting Fiorello LaGuardia, New York City’s 99th Mayor and the city’s first Italian American mayor.
Serving three terms from 1934 to 1945, LaGuardia was known for his froward-thinking leadership and opposition to political corruption. He also served in Congress and earned the Italian Cross for his World War I service. LaGuardia left a lasting mark on the city, including advocating for aviation and the creation of what would become LaGuardia Airport.

He was also the driving force behind the construction of Manhattan's beautiful City Center for the performing arts and the city's high school for the performing arts ist named after him. Like many of New York's most impactful mayors, he was quite a colorful character.
And perhaps his most memorable moment? During the 1945 newspaper strike, LaGuardia read comic strips aloud over the radio for New York’s children. Today, LaGuardia rests at Woodlawn, where his legacy remains part of New York City’s history.

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