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Congress of Vienna and the fragmentation of Italy
After Napoleon's defeat, the Congress of Vienna reorganized Europe and divided Italy into seven independent states, keeping it under the influence of foreign powers such as Austria. -
Liberal revolutions and the rise of nationalism
Inspired by the French Revolution and nationalist ideals, revolts break out in several regions of Italy against foreign rule and absolutist monarchies. Although most fail, they sow the seed of the Risorgimento (Italian revival). -
Cavour, Prime Minister of Piedmont-Sardinia
Camillus de Cavour, liberal leader and skilled diplomat, assumes the position of Prime Minister in Piedmont-Sardinia and outlines a plan for Italian unification through strategic alliances and economic modernization. -
Secret Plombières agreement between Cavour and Napoleon III
Cavour negotiates with Napoleon III, Emperor of France, to obtain military support against Austria. In exchange, France would receive Savoy and Nice once the unification of northern Italy was achieved. -
War against Austria and annexation of Lombardy
Piamonte-Cerdeña y Francia luchan contra Austria. Tras las victorias en Magenta y Solferino , Austria cede Lombardía a Francia, quien la transfiere a Piamonte. Este conflicto también lleva a la fundación de la Cruz Roja por Henri Dunant. -
Plebiscites in central Italy and annexation of territories
The duchies of Parma, Modena and Tuscany, along with territories of the Papal States, hold referendums and vote to join the Kingdom of Sardinia, promoting unification. -
Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy
On March 13, 1861, the Italian Parliament in Turin proclaims Victor Emmanuel II as king of Italy. However, the unification is not complete, as Venice and Rome remain outside Italian control. -
Garibaldi's first failed attempt to take Rome
Garibaldi attempts to march on Rome with a group of volunteers to expel the Pope, but is stopped by the Italian army, as the Pope is still protected by French troops. -
Austro-Prussian War and annexation of Venice
Italy allies with Prussia against Austria in the Seven Weeks' War. After the Prussian victory at Sadowa, Austria cedes Venice, which is incorporated into Italy. -
Franco-Prussian War and annexation of Rome
The war between Prussia and France forces Napoleon III to withdraw his troops from Rome. Italy takes advantage of the opportunity and, on September 20, 1870, its troops enter the city, completing the unification. -
Rome becomes the capital of Italy
Victor Emmanuel II moves to Rome, making it the capital of the Kingdom of Italy. However, the Pope refuses to recognize the annexation and considers himself a “prisoner of the Vatican”, initiating the "Roman Question".