The American universe. A reflection on the complex panorama of the end of the 20th century

This article reflects on the complex panorama of the end Century practice i n the History of America, seen as a "leopard skin," i.e. showing a privileg ed focus on certain topics, methodologies and areas to the detriment of oth ers. Once the interest in general histories of America has been diminished, the actual tendencies favour fragmented researches on a diversity of subje cts(family, women studies, environmental studies, reading and books, etc.), while there is a slow turn towards the cases of the "other Americas" (Russ ian America, Guyanas, etc.). Perhaps there should appear now new directions aiming to unite and sizing the interest of the world americanist community .