Question

How was Italy unified?
OR
How was Germany unified?

Hint:

The unification of Italy was a complex process that involved both military action and diplomatic negotiation. The combined efforts of prominent nationalists and the strategic use of alliances were key to achieving unity.

Answer 1

Unification of Italy:
The unification of Italy, also known as the "Risorgimento," was the political and social movement that consolidated various independent Italian states into a single nation-state. The process of unification occurred in the 19th century and involved a series of diplomatic and military actions. Key figures in this process were Giuseppe Mazzini, Count Camillo di Cavour, and Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Early Efforts and the Role of Mazzini:
In the early 19th century, Italy was divided into various small kingdoms and states, including the Papal States, Kingdom of Naples, Kingdom of Sardinia, and others. Revolutionary movements, inspired by the ideals of nationalism and liberalism, began to emerge. Giuseppe Mazzini, a nationalist and revolutionary, formed the movement known as \textit{Young Italy}, which sought to create a unified and republican Italy. Mazzini’s efforts, though unsuccessful in the short term, helped spread the ideas of unity and nationalism across Italy.
The Role of Sardinia-Piedmont and Cavour:
The Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont, under the leadership of King Victor Emmanuel II and his Prime Minister Count Camillo di Cavour, played a central role in the unification process. Cavour pursued diplomatic strategies to gain the support of major European powers, particularly France. He sought to drive Austria, which controlled large parts of northern Italy, out of the region. - In 1859, Cavour allied with France to fight Austria, resulting in the victory of the Sardinian army and the annexation of Lombardy. Cavour also worked diplomatically to annex other states like Tuscany, Modena, and Parma into Sardinia.
The Role of Garibaldi:
Meanwhile, Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian nationalist and military leader, led a volunteer army known as the \textit{Red Shirts}. In 1860, Garibaldi launched an expedition to southern Italy and successfully overthrew the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies (Southern Italy). Garibaldi handed over his conquests to King Victor Emmanuel II, further paving the way for unification.
Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy:
By 1861, the Kingdom of Italy was officially proclaimed, with Victor Emmanuel II as its first king. However, certain regions, including Venice and Rome, remained outside the new Italian state. The final steps of unification came in 1866 when Italy, allied with Prussia, defeated Austria and gained Venice. The final piece, Rome, was captured in 1870 when the Papal States were annexed following the withdrawal of French troops (who had been protecting the pope).
Conclusion:
Italy’s unification was a combination of diplomatic efforts, military victories, and popular support. The efforts of key leaders like Mazzini, Cavour, and Garibaldi, along with the defeat of foreign powers, led to the formation of a unified Italian state by 187
1.