Giuseppe Rocco

In a penetrating look at our national myth of rags-to-riches success, Ronald Ruiz tells the gripping story of the rise, unification, and decline of two very American families named Rocco and Martinez.

Through his self-made scavenger business and a series of shrewd land investments, Italian immigrant Giuseppe Rocco raises himself from nothing to improbable wealth and political influence in northern California. Rocco’s money and power allow him to possess a bride of high birth and breeding. Al...