1. The importance of foreign intervention
The Unification of Italy
The importance of foreign intervention

2. What part did Austria play?
Metternich’s forces frustrated the efforts of the Carbonari in the 1820s and 1830s
Austrian troops helped Ferdinand II regain his position in 1849
The Austrians defeated Piedmont’s Charles Albert and re-established Austria’s control

3. What part did Austria play?
Clearly Austria hindered Italian unity
Metternich worked hard to suppress nationalist and liberal movements
Austrian troops controlled Lombardy & Venetia
Austrian troops supported King of the 2 Sicilies, the Pope, and the 3 Duchies

4. What part did France play?
In 1849 French troops defeated the Roman Republic
1858 Napoleon III agreed at Plombieres to help Piedmont drive Austrians out of Lombardy and Venetia
French victories followed by peace at Villafranca
Gains made by Piedmont

5. France and Italian Unification
After a short period when the French had given considerable help to the Risorgimento Napoleon III now turned against Italy
He tried to use diplomatic pressure to halt Garibaldi’s progress
French troops remained in Rome until 1870
How important was the French contribution?

6. Did Britain do much to help?
Strong public opinion in favour of Italy
Many politicians sympathetic
Lord John Russell suggested in 1860 that future of Italy should be decided by self-determination
Royal Navy protected Garibaldi’s crossing to mainland from Sicily

7. How much help did Prussia give?
Help from Prussia (Germany after 1870) was indirect but crucial
Deal made with Austria & France in 1866 – Italy in win/win situation!
Outbreak of war between France and Prussia in 1870 saw withdrawal of French troops from Rome
To what extent was Italy united by Italians?