Origins in Post-War Italy The Vespa scooter was born out of necessity in post-World War II Italy. In 1946, Italy was rebuilding, and transportation was scarce and expensive. The Piaggio company, originally an aircraft manufacturer, shifted focus to meet civilian needs. Engineer Corradino D’Ascanio was tasked with designing a vehicle that was affordable, reliable, and easy to ride. What he created was the Vespa — Italian for “wasp” — named for its buzzing sound and sleek, wasp-like shape. A National and Cultural Icon The Vespa quickly became a cultural phenomenon in Italy. It represented: • Freedom: A way for young Italians to move around post-war cities. • Modernity: A stylish departure from the past, associated with the economic boom of the 1950s and 60s. • Romance and La Dolce Vita: Immortalized in films like Roman Holiday (1953), where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck ride through Rome, the Vespa became synonymous with adventure, love, and carefree spirit.

The Vespa Abroad: Italian Canadians and the Scooter Craze When Italians emigrated to Canada in large numbers after the war, many brought not just their traditions but also their style and symbols. The Vespa, small and agile, stood out in Canadian cities. For Italian Canadians: • It was a link to the old country, reminding them of home. • . It became a badge of cultural pride, especially among youth in Italian neighbourhoods like Toronto’s College Street, or Montreal’s Little Italy. Vespa clubs emerged, and local Italian businesses even began to import them. The scooter became a familiar sight at Italian festivals, weddings, and community events — a rolling reminder of Italian craftsmanship and flair. Legacy Today Today,

the Vespa is a timeless classic. Vintage models are treasured collectibles, while new ones still capture the spirit of Italian design and elegance. For Italian Canadians, it’s more than a scooter — it’s a symbol of: Heritage and resilience, Style and innovation. A life lived with joy and motion — la dolce vita.