Unification of Italy and Germany
Index
1. Introduction
2. Unification of Italy
o Reasons for Unification
o Key Figures in Italian Unification
o Major Developments
o Impact on Europe
3. Unification of Germany
o Reasons for Unification
o Role of Otto von Bismarck
o Major Wars and Treaties
o Impact on Europe
4. Conclusion
5. References
6. Appendices
o Maps
o Pictures
Introduction
In the 19th century, Europe saw the rise of nationalism, a powerful force that led to the
unification of Italy and Germany. Nationalism is the belief in the unity and independence of a
nation based on shared culture, language, and history. The unification of Italy and Germany
not only changed these nations but also had a significant impact on the rest of Europe.
Unification of Italy
Reasons for Unification
1. Nationalism: Italians shared a common culture and language, which made them want
to unite into one country.
2. Foreign Rule: Many parts of Italy were controlled by foreign powers like Austria,
which Italians wanted to expel.
3. Economic Benefits: A united Italy would have a stronger economy and better trade
opportunities.
Key Figures in Italian Unification
1. Giuseppe Mazzini: An important leader who inspired Italians with his ideas of a
unified, democratic Italy.
2. Count Camillo di Cavour: The Prime Minister of Piedmont-Sardinia who used
diplomacy and alliances to help achieve unification.
3. Giuseppe Garibaldi: A brave soldier who led military campaigns in Southern Italy to
help unify the country.
4. Victor Emmanuel II: The King of Piedmont-Sardinia who became the first king of a
unified Italy.
Major Developments
1. Revolutions of 1848: Although these uprisings failed, they laid the groundwork for
future unification efforts.
2. Second Italian War of Independence (1859): Cavour's alliance with France helped
defeat Austria and gain Lombardy.
3. Expedition of the Thousand (1860): Garibaldi's campaign in Southern Italy
successfully conquered the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
4. Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy (1861): Italy was officially unified under
King Victor Emmanuel II, but some territories were still outside.
5. Third Italian War of Independence (1866): Italy allied with Prussia and gained
Venetia from Austria.
6. Capture of Rome (1870): Rome was seized and became the capital of unified Italy
after French troops left during the Franco-Prussian War.
Impact on Europe
1. Change in Power: The unification of Italy weakened Austria's power in Europe.
2. Inspiration for Other Movements: Italy's success inspired other nationalist
movements across Europe.
3. New Alliances: Italy's unification influenced the formation of alliances that would
shape future European politics.
Unification of Germany
Reasons for Unification
1. Economic Unity: The Zollverein, a customs union, helped German states work
together economically.
2. Cultural Unity: Germans shared a common language and culture, which fueled
nationalist feelings.
3. Political Fragmentation: Many small German states wanted to unite into a single,
powerful nation.
Role of Otto von Bismarck
1. Realpolitik: Bismarck's practical and strategic approach to politics focused on
strengthening Prussia and unifying Germany.
2. Diplomacy and Alliances: Bismarck formed important alliances and isolated enemies
to achieve his goals.
3. Wars for Unification:
o Danish War (1864): Prussia and Austria defeated Denmark and took control
of Schleswig and Holstein.
o Austro-Prussian War (1866): Prussia defeated Austria, leading to the
creation of the North German Confederation.
o Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871): Bismarck provoked this war to unite the
German states against France, leading to the German Empire's proclamation.
Major Wars and Treaties
1. Treaty of Vienna (1864): Ended the Danish War and divided territories between
Prussia and Austria.
2. Treaty of Prague (1866): Ended the Austro-Prussian War, excluding Austria from
German affairs and creating the North German Confederation.
3. Treaty of Frankfurt (1871): Ended the Franco-Prussian War, leading to the
proclamation of the German Empire in Versailles.
Impact on Europe
1. New Major Power: The German Empire became a significant power in Europe.
2. Weakened France: France's defeat and loss of territory weakened its position in
Europe.
3. Increased Militarization: Germany's success led other countries to build up their
militaries.
4. Complex Alliances: The unification of Germany led to alliances that eventually
contributed to World War I.
Conclusion
The unification of Italy and Germany were major events in European history, driven by
nationalism and strategic leadership. These unifications not only created powerful new
nations but also changed the political landscape of Europe, leading to new alliances and
conflicts. The impact of these movements is still felt today, showing the power of nationalism
and the desire for unity.
References
1. Duggan, C. (2007). The Force of Destiny: A History of Italy Since 1796.
HarperCollins.
2. Kitchen, M. (2011). A History of Modern Germany: 1800 to the Present. Wiley-
Blackwell.
3. Robertson, P. (1971). Revolutions of 1848: A Social History. Princeton University
Press.
4. Williamson, D. G. (2011). Bismarck and Germany: 1862-1890. Longman.
Appendices
Maps
Map of Italy Before and After Unification
Map of Germany Before and After Unification
Pictures
Pictures of Key Figures: Giuseppe Mazzini, Count Camillo di Cavour, Giuseppe
Garibaldi, Victor Emmanuel II, Otto von Bismarck.
Pictures of Major Battles and Treaties: Battles of Solferino, Königgrätz, and Sedan;
Treaties of Vienna, Prague, and Frankfurt.
