Naples and Its Journey to Becoming Part of Italy
When did Naples officially become part of Italy? This question touches on a significant chapter of Italian history, particularly relating to the Risorgimento and the process of Italian unification. This article delves into the complex timeline and the pivotal events that led to the incorporation of the city-state of Naples into the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.
The Historical Context of Italian Unification (1815-1861)
The Risorgimento was a complex period in Italian history, marked by a series of events that led to the unification of Italy from a collection of independent states into a single nation. The movement aimed to achieve national independence, unity, and the dissolution of external influence and internal division. Various factions and movements contributed to the unification, including the scientific and high cultural movements of the 19th century, as well as the political upheavals and revolutions of the time.
The Rise of the Kingdom of Italy (1859-1861)
In May 1859, the First Italian War of Independence broke out. This war was a result of the Austrian occupation of the Italian states and the desire for independence. The war saw the participation of several Italian states against Austrian forces. In early 1860, Giuseppe Garibaldi and his Mille (Thousand) crossed the southern border of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, a large and strategically important region, including present-day Naples.
The Capture of Naples
Garibaldi's campaign began with the capture of Gaeta, a fortress guarding the kingdom's northern coast. This victory marked a significant breakthrough, as it opened the path to Naples. On September 7, 1860, the city of Naples fell to the Red Shakos, underscoring the power and popularity of Garibaldi's movement. The populace, tired of Bourbon rule, welcomed the invaders with enthusiasm, recognizing the potential for better governance and greater freedoms.
The Premiere of Camorra
Shortly after capturing Naples, Garibaldi faced a challenge from the Camorra, a brutal criminal organization operating in the Naples region. Bayard Taylor, an 18th-century American author, played a crucial role in negotiating a truce between Garibaldi and the Camorra leaders. This event is often referred to as the First Caoronna, and it laid the foundation for future negotiations and truces.
The Annexation in 1861 and the Unification of Italy
On the national level, the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont, under King Victor Emmanuel II, moved to annex the Two Sicilies. The slow but steady efforts of the Risorgimento led to the annexation of Naples on March 18, 1861, marking an important step towards the unification of Italy. This event effectively ended the Bourbon rule over the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, which had been a thorn in the side of unification efforts for decades.
The Cultural Impact of Unification
The unification of Italy did not only mean the political joining of various territories but also the cultural and social integration of different regions. Naples, with its rich history and distinct cultural heritage, faced the challenge of finding a place within the newly formed nation-state. While the unification brought modern infrastructure and education to the city, it also led to changes in its traditional way of life and values.
The Reaction of the Local Population
The reaction to the unification from Naples' population was mixed. On one hand, there was a sense of modernization and better governance. On the other hand, there were concerns about the loss of regional identity and potential economic hardships. The annexation was celebrated in some quarters and mourned in others, highlighting the complexity of the unification process.
Conclusion
The process that led to Naples' incorporation into the Kingdom of Italy in 1861 was a multifaceted and multifaceted one. It involved military campaigns, political negotiations, and social and cultural shifts. Understanding this history provides valuable insights into the journey that Italy took to become a unified nation. Today, Naples stands as a vibrant city, proud of its heritage and its integration into the broader Italian identity.