Role of Garibaldi in Italy Unification

Garibaldi played a significant role in the process of Italy's unification during the 19th century. His contributions were crucial in achieving Italian independence and creating a unified nation. Here are the key details of Garibaldi's role in Italy's unification:

Military Leadership:
- Garibaldi was a skilled military leader and became the commander of the Italian nationalist forces, known as the "Redshirts."
- He organized and led various military campaigns that were instrumental in driving out foreign powers and unifying different regions of Italy.
- One of his most famous campaigns was the Expedition of the Thousand, where he and his Redshirts sailed to Sicily and successfully liberated the island from Bourbon rule.

Unification of Southern Italy:
- Garibaldi's main objective was to liberate and unify the southern part of Italy, which was still under foreign control.
- After the successful campaign in Sicily, Garibaldi crossed over to the mainland and marched northward, gaining support and recruits along the way.
- He won several battles against the Bourbon forces and effectively liberated Naples and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
- Garibaldi's victories in the south laid the groundwork for the eventual unification of Italy.

Collaboration with Cavour:
- Although Garibaldi was a staunch republican, he recognized the importance of working with Count Camillo di Cavour, a leading figure in the Italian unification movement who favored a constitutional monarchy.
- Garibaldi agreed to support Cavour's efforts to unify Italy under the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia, which became the driving force behind the unification process.
- Their collaboration led to the successful integration of southern Italy into the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia, creating a more powerful and united front.

Transfer of Power:
- In 1860, Garibaldi voluntarily handed over control of the territories he had liberated to King Victor Emmanuel II of Piedmont-Sardinia.
- This act demonstrated Garibaldi's commitment to the larger goal of Italian unification and his willingness to subordinate his personal ambitions for the greater good.
- By transferring power to the monarchy, Garibaldi helped solidify the political framework necessary for the creation of a unified Italian state.

Overall, Garibaldi's military leadership, collaboration with Cavour, and willingness to transfer power were crucial in the process of Italian unification. He played a pivotal role in liberating and unifying the southern regions of Italy, which ultimately led to the formation of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.