Italian Unification 1848-1870

Situation in 1848 There were different states in Italy. The most important were: -Piedmont, which included Liguria and Sardinia. -Lombardy -Veneto -Papal States, in both sides of the Apennines -the Kingdom of Naples

Basis of the Revolution The Carbonari, a secret political association began the movement. They projected a revolution in Naples The revolution was put down by the Austrians, as agents of the Holy Alliance

Young Italy Mazzini organized a new political society, the Young Italy. His purpose was to unite several states into one only nation. He wanted a free Italy and got the help of other revolutionaries.                       

Garibaldi Fought against Neapolitans and French invaders. Struck the kingdom of Naples and Sicily. Took several places in the name of Victor Emmanuel, king of Italy

Phases 1848 Rebellions in Sardinia, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies and Tuscany. 1849 Austrian rule overthrown in Lombardy and Venetia. 1859 Sardinia gains Lombardy in war between Sardinia and Austria 1860 Sardinia annexed Parma, Modena, Tuscany and Romagna. Garibaldi seized Sicily and Naples.

Phases 1860 Elections created union but Rome and Venetia were excluded. 1866 Italy gained Venetia 1870 Franco-Prussian War forced Napoleon III to withdraw his troops from Rome Roman citizens voted for union with Italy Roma proclaimed the capital Unification was complete.

Protagonists The count of Cavour was one of the most important persons of the unification. He followed the current called Risorgimento and had an important influence on Victor Emmanuel

Protagonists Victor Emmanuel of Savoy, king of Piamonte, was an important leader in the unification. He became the king of the unified Italy with the name of Vitor Emmanuel II.

Map of the Unification