ABSTRACT
Italy had, for some centuries, been regarded as the part of Europe least likely to be united, and seemed to merit Metternich’s observation that it was merely a ‘geographical expression’. Yet under-currents of national sentiment did exist, as did a willingness in all parts to rise against foreign rule or local oppression. There were also theoretical schemes for unification, including the federal scheme of Gioberti and the unitary republicanism of Mazzini. The failure of the 1848 revolutions, however, proved that the expulsion of the foreigner and the reduction of the number of political units required consummate diplomatic and military skills as well.
