Unification of italy History Timeline and Biographies

The Congress of Vienna

The Congress of Vienna restructured Europe after the Napoleonic Wars, restoring many old regimes and dividing Italy into various states, thus laying the groundwork for future nationalist movements that would lead to the Unification of Italy.

The Formation of the Carbonari

The Carbonari, a secret society advocating for Italian unification and liberal reforms, emerged in the early 19th century, influencing public opinion and igniting revolutionary fervor that would contribute to the Unification of Italy.

The Revolutions of 1848

A series of uprisings across Europe, including in various Italian states, aimed at achieving national unity and independence from foreign rule. Although these revolutions failed, they highlighted the desire for the Unification of Italy among the populace.

Cavour Becomes Prime Minister of Piedmont-Sardinia

Count Camillo di Cavour was appointed Prime Minister, and he began to implement policies aimed at promoting Italian unification through diplomacy and strategic alliances, particularly with France.

Second Italian War of Independence

Piedmont-Sardinia, allied with France, fought against Austria in the Second Italian War of Independence, resulting in significant territorial gains and marking a crucial step towards the Unification of Italy.

Garibaldi's Expedition of the Thousand

Giuseppe Garibaldi led a volunteer army, known as the "Thousand," to conquer the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. His successful campaign was instrumental in the Unification of Italy, bringing southern territories into the fold.

Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy

On March 17, 1861, the Kingdom of Italy was officially proclaimed, with Victor Emmanuel II as its first king. This marked a significant milestone in the Unification of Italy, although some regions remained outside the new kingdom.

Third Italian War of Independence

Italy allied with Prussia against Austria during the Austro-Prussian War. As a result, Italy gained the territories of Venetia, further solidifying the Unification of Italy.

Capture of Rome

In September 1870, Italian troops captured Rome, completing the Unification of Italy. Rome was declared the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, marking the culmination of the Risorgimento movement.

Rome Becomes the Capital of Italy

The Italian Parliament officially declared Rome the capital of Italy, solidifying its status as the heart of the newly unified nation and representing the final achievement in the Unification of Italy.

Formation of the Triple Alliance

Italy joined the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary, seeking to strengthen its position in Europe following the Unification of Italy and to secure its borders against potential threats.

Italy Enters World War I

Italy entered World War I on the side of the Allies, motivated by the desire to gain territories promised during the Unification of Italy, particularly in the Adriatic region, demonstrating the ongoing impact of the unification process.

A New Republic is Born

After World War II, Italy abolished the monarchy and established a republic, reflecting the evolving identity of the nation that had undergone significant changes since the Unification of Italy in the 19th century.

Commemoration of the Unification of Italy

In 2024, Italy celebrates the 160th anniversary of its unification, reflecting on the historical significance and the ongoing legacy of the Unification of Italy in shaping modern Italian identity and governance.