Abstract

This paper analyses dozens of dossiers of young physicians, found in the archive of the former psychiatric hospital «San Lazzaro» in Reggio Emilia (Italy). From the last part of the XIX century till the years of WW1, «San Lazzaro» was not only an asylum, but also a research and training center, connected to the local university. The analysis of the records underlines the selection processes of interns and, in particular, the pivotal role of the recommendation system.