The Risorgimento was a political and social movement that led to the unification of Italy in the 19th century. It began with the insurrections and revolutionary movements of the early 19th century and culminated with the birth of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861 and the capture of Rome in 1870. This timeline illustrates the main historical events that marked the path towards national unity, highlighting the key moments that contributed to the construction of a united Italy, free and independent from foreign powers.
Congress of Vienna
The Congress of Vienna re-establishes monarchical order in Europe after the fall of Napoleon, and gives Austria control of much of northern Italy.
Revolts of 1820-1821
A series of insurrections in Sicily and Piedmont against absolutist regimes, inspired by liberal ideas and the Carboneria, but repressed by European conservative forces.
1831 riots and foundation of Young Italy
Mazzini founded Giovine Italia, a republican movement that sought to promote Italian unity with a democratic and insurrectional vision.
The revolutions of 1848
A wave of revolutions across Europe against absolutist rule, including the Five Days of Milan and the First War of Independence against Austria.
Cavour becomes Prime Minister of Piedmont
Cavour leads Piedmont towards a policy of modernization and strategic alliances, which will lead to the unification of Italy.
Second War of Independence
Piedmont, allied with France, fights against Austria to liberate Lombardy, one of the crucial phases of Italian unification.
Expedition of the Thousand
Garibaldi, with a group of volunteers, conquers the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, marking a fundamental stage in the unification of Italy.
Proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy
On March 17, 1861, Vittorio Emanuele II was proclaimed King of Italy, officially marking the birth of the Kingdom of Italy.
Third War of Independence
Allied with Prussia, the Kingdom of Italy fights against Austria to liberate the Veneto, completing the unification of northern Italy.
Capture of Rome
With the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War, the Italian army enters Rome, ending the temporal dominion of the Pope.
Rome capital of Italy
In 1871, Rome officially became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, symbolically completing national unification.
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