Mapping the consumption of gymnastic and sport equipment in Italian school

Abstract

This research aims at investigating Italian sport industry trademarks in the age of fascism through the patented series of the Office of Industrial Property (Ministry of Agriculture, Industry and Commerce; Italian Central State Archives). The research question at the basis of the inquiry are: which gymnastic and sport equipment was available to the organizations of the totalitarian state in charge of physical education in schools (consumers mediators) and to their members (product consumers); which physical and gymnastic activities were promoted to the detriment of others; whether Italian production expanded or not in comparison with the former period.