The Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy: March 17, 1861

On March 17, 1861, a pivotal moment in European history unfolded with the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy. This event marked the culmination of the Italian unification process, known as the Risorgimento, and established Victor Emmanuel II as the first king of a unified Italy.

Historical Context

The unification of Italy was a complex process that spanned several decades, driven by a combination of political, social, and military efforts. Prior to unification, the Italian peninsula was fragmented into multiple states, including the Kingdom of Sardinia, the Papal States, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, and various duchies and city-states. The movement for unification was fueled by a growing sense of nationalism and the desire for independence from foreign rule, particularly Austrian influence in the north.

Key Figures

• Victor Emmanuel II: As the King of Sardinia, he played a crucial role in the unification efforts. His leadership and support for the cause were instrumental in bringing together the various Italian states.
• Count Camillo di Cavour: The Prime Minister of Sardinia, Cavour was a master diplomat and strategist who worked tirelessly to achieve unification through alliances and political maneuvering.
• Giuseppe Garibaldi: A charismatic military leader and nationalist, Garibaldi led the famous Expedition of the Thousand, which resulted in the conquest of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

The Road to Unification

The unification process involved a series of wars, diplomatic negotiations, and popular uprisings:

1. The Second Italian War of Independence (1859): Sardinia, allied with France, fought against Austria, resulting in the annexation of Lombardy.
2. The Expedition of the Thousand (1860): Garibaldi’s campaign in southern Italy led to the fall of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
3. Plebiscites and Annexations: Various regions held plebiscites, voting to join the Kingdom of Sardinia, which expanded its territory significantly.

The Proclamation

On March 17, 1861, the Italian Parliament, convened in Turin, declared Victor Emmanuel II as the King of Italy. This proclamation symbolized the official unification of most of the Italian peninsula under a single monarchy. However, it is important to note that Rome and Venetia were not yet part of the kingdom; Rome would be annexed in 1870, and Venetia in 1866.

Aftermath and Significance

The unification of Italy had profound implications:

• Political and Social Change: The new kingdom faced challenges in integrating diverse regions with distinct cultures and histories. Efforts to centralize governance and promote a unified Italian identity were ongoing.
• European Balance of Power: The emergence of Italy as a unified state altered the political landscape of Europe, influencing alliances and power dynamics.
• Nationalism: The success of the Italian unification inspired nationalist movements across Europe, contributing to the reshaping of national borders in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy on March 17, 1861, stands as a testament to the enduring power of nationalist aspirations and the complex interplay of diplomacy, warfare, and popular movements in shaping modern nation-states.