ABSTRACT
Since the end of World War II, there have been problems in transforming and creating in Italy non-University research centers dealing with contemporary history (public and private). Discussed here are the repercussions caused by the introduction of contemporary history in the educational programs and the primary role of private centers; aims and results of the establishment of the Ministry of Cultural Patrimony (Ministero per i Beni culturali e ambientali); the birth and development of “foundations”; the original experience of the more than 50 Institutes all over Italy associated with the National Institute for the History of the Liberation struggle in Italy (founded in 1949); and the field of sharing scientific resources and responsibilities.
