History Extra podcast The unification of Italy: everything you wanted to know
49 snips
May 3, 2025 David Laven, a historian and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, dives into the thrilling narrative of Italy's unification. He tackles the complex identity of 'being Italian' in the 19th century and the multifaceted reactions from the papacy. Laven also shares why British women fell head over heels for Garibaldi and discusses the political struggles following unification, especially the unrest in southern Italy. The conversation reveals how regional identities continued to challenge national unity long after the kingdom was declared.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
What is the Risorgimento?
- The Risorgimento is the process of unifying Italy politically and culturally after centuries of division. It culminated in the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861 and completion in 1870 with Rome's conquest.
- It was important because it shaped modern Italy's identity and political boundaries amid varied regional identities and loyalties.
Italian Regional Identity Tensions
- Italian unification faced challenges due to strong regional identities and economic divides, especially the north-south divide.
- Despite the diversity and low national language fluency, a shared sense of Italian-ness existed, creating a tension between unity and regional difference.
Early Seeds of Unification
- The Italian unification cause developed mostly post-Napoleonic Wars, with early cultural and political debates about resisting foreign domination.
- Napoleon's rule brought reforms and unity benefits but also foreign control, sparking desires for an independent, unified Italy.