Early Unification Movements
Before 1815, Italy was fragmented into multiple kingdoms and states. The Congress of Vienna further divided Italy, prompting secret societies like the Carbonari to rise, advocating for national unity.
Giuseppe Mazzini's Young Italy
Giuseppe Mazzini founded Young Italy in 1831, aiming to transform Italy into a sovereign democratic republic. His passionate nationalism inspired many, laying an ideological foundation for unification.
The First War of Independence
The 1848 revolutions sparked Italy's First War of Independence against Austrian rule. Although initially successful, divergent goals among states led to defeat, postponing unification.
Cavour's Diplomatic Genius
Count Camillo di Cavour became Prime Minister of Sardinia in 1852 and skillfully used diplomacy to isolate Austria. His alliances with France and Prussia were pivotal for Italy's unification.
Garibaldi's Expedition of Thousand
In 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi led a volunteer force known as the 'Red Shirts' to conquer the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. His success was crucial for the unification of southern Italy.
Venetia and Rome Annexed
Italy gained Venetia after the Austro-Prussian War in 1866 through a treaty with Prussia. Rome was incorporated in 1870, after French troops withdrew, becoming the capital of a unified Italy.
The Irredentist Movement
Even after unification, the Irredentist movement sought to reclaim Italian-speaking areas still under foreign rule, such as Trentino and Trieste, fueling future territorial disputes in Europe.
What fragmented Italy before 1815?
Congress of Vienna
Multiple kingdoms, states
Young Italy movement
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