Risorgimento

Definition

Risorgimento refers to the social and political movement in the 19th century that aimed to unify the various states and territories on the Italian peninsula into a single nation-state. This movement was fueled by a growing sense of nationalism and a desire for independence from foreign domination, especially from Austria. The Risorgimento played a crucial role in shaping modern Italy, intertwining themes of nationalism, liberalism, and the struggle against conservatism, all of which contributed to the new political order in Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Risorgimento spanned several decades, with key events occurring from the early 19th century until 1871, when Rome became the capital of a unified Italy.
2. The movement was characterized by both revolutionary uprisings and diplomatic efforts, including wars against Austria and negotiations with various European powers.
3. Key figures like Giuseppe Mazzini, Count Cavour, and Giuseppe Garibaldi were instrumental in promoting the ideas of nationalism and liberalism throughout Italy during this period.
4. The concept of 'Italia irredenta' emerged during the Risorgimento, advocating for the inclusion of all Italian-speaking territories into the unified state.
5. The completion of the Risorgimento was marked by the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861, though unification was not fully achieved until Rome was integrated in 1870.

Review Questions

• How did the Risorgimento contribute to the rise of nationalism in Italy during the 19th century?
  • The Risorgimento fueled nationalism in Italy by promoting the idea of a unified nation-state among diverse Italian-speaking territories. As people began to identify more strongly with a shared Italian identity rather than local affiliations, movements emerged that sought independence from foreign rule and internal divisions. This rising nationalism was essential for mobilizing support for unification efforts and fostering a collective national consciousness that ultimately led to the creation of a unified Italy.
• Evaluate the roles of key figures such as Garibaldi and Cavour in advancing the goals of the Risorgimento.
  • Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Cavour were pivotal in achieving the goals of the Risorgimento through their distinct yet complementary approaches. Garibaldi is celebrated for his charismatic leadership and military successes, particularly with his 'Expedition of the Thousand' which liberated Sicily and contributed to unification. In contrast, Cavour utilized diplomacy and strategic alliances, working through official channels as Prime Minister of Sardinia to negotiate with France and Austria. Their combined efforts resulted in a strong push towards unifying Italy under a single government.
• Analyze how the Risorgimento reflected broader European trends in nationalism and liberalism during the 19th century.
  • The Risorgimento exemplified broader European trends in nationalism and liberalism by showcasing how diverse groups sought self-determination and political reform. Similar movements across Europe were driven by desires to overthrow autocratic regimes and establish nation-states based on shared cultural or ethnic identities. The Risorgimento's emphasis on liberal ideals such as individual rights and representative government resonated with contemporary revolutions across Europe, including those in France and Germany, reinforcing a collective push towards modernization and national unity that defined the era.

Related terms

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often advocating for self-governance and independence.

Giuseppe Garibaldi: An Italian general and nationalist who played a significant role in the unification of Italy through military campaigns and his leadership in the Risorgimento.

Cavour: Count Camillo di Cavour was a leading figure in the Italian unification process, serving as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sardinia and promoting liberal policies.