Expedition of the Thousand

Definition

The Expedition of the Thousand was a military campaign led by Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860 aimed at unifying Italy under a single national government. This event marked a significant moment in the rise of nationalism, as it mobilized popular support for the cause of Italian unification and highlighted the tension between revolutionary liberalism and conservative political structures of the time. The campaign ultimately played a crucial role in establishing a unified Italian state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Garibaldi's Expedition began in May 1860 when he and his followers landed in Sicily to begin their campaign against Bourbon rule.
2. The expedition quickly gained popular support among Sicilians, who were eager to overthrow their oppressive rulers and join the cause for Italian unification.
3. By July 1860, Garibaldi had successfully captured Palermo and other key cities, showcasing the effectiveness of his leadership and strategy.
4. The Expedition of the Thousand culminated in Garibaldi's decision to hand over control of conquered territories to King Victor Emmanuel II, prioritizing national unity over personal ambition.
5. This military campaign is seen as a pivotal moment in the broader movement for nationalism in Europe, influencing other revolutionary movements and contributing to the eventual unification of Italy in 1861.

Review Questions

• How did Garibaldi's leadership during the Expedition of the Thousand contribute to the rise of nationalism in Italy?
  • Garibaldi's leadership was instrumental in rallying popular support for Italian unification during the Expedition of the Thousand. His charisma and ability to inspire ordinary people led many to join his cause, significantly increasing the momentum for nationalism across Italy. The success of his campaign not only challenged existing conservative powers but also ignited aspirations for self-determination among various regions, making him a symbol of national pride and unity.
• Evaluate how the Expedition of the Thousand reflected the tensions between liberal and conservative ideologies in mid-19th century Italy.
  • The Expedition of the Thousand illustrated the clash between revolutionary liberal ideals and entrenched conservative interests during this period. While Garibaldi and his supporters sought to establish a unified, democratic Italy based on liberal principles, they often faced resistance from conservative forces, including monarchists who preferred maintaining their power. The eventual cooperation between Garibaldi and King Victor Emmanuel II signified a compromise that enabled unification while still catering to conservative elements, showcasing how both ideologies were intertwined in shaping Italy's future.
• Analyze how the outcomes of the Expedition of the Thousand affected subsequent political developments in Europe regarding nationalism and state-building.
  • The success of Garibaldi's Expedition had far-reaching implications for nationalism and state-building across Europe. It set a precedent for other nationalist movements, demonstrating that popular uprisings could lead to significant political change. The unification of Italy inspired similar efforts in other regions, such as Germany, where leaders like Otto von Bismarck would later employ similar tactics to achieve national unity. Furthermore, it raised questions about governance and representation, as new nation-states struggled with how to balance liberal ideals with conservative realities in their respective political frameworks.

Related terms

Risorgimento:

The Italian unification movement that sought to consolidate various states on the Italian peninsula into a single nation-state during the 19th century.

Kingdom of Sardinia: A leading state in the unification of Italy, under the rule of King Victor Emmanuel II, which played a crucial role in supporting Garibaldi's efforts.

Red Shirts: The volunteer army that Garibaldi led during the Expedition of the Thousand, known for their distinctive red uniforms and commitment to the cause of Italian unification.