Italian Unification 1815-1871

In 1815 Italy was so divided politically and culturally that it was famously described as 'merely a geographical expression'. This book explores and explains how Italy thought and fought its way to an unstable national unity by 1871. The enquiries examine the key political ideas of the period and the roles of key individuals - who include some of the most charismatic politicians in nineteenth century Europe - while also reflecting upon broader issues of nationalism and what makes a nation.