The Unification of Italy in the nineteenth century was the unlikely result of a lengthy and complex process of Italian revival (Risorgimento). Few Italians supported Unification and the new rulers of Italy were unable to resolve their disputes with the Catholic Church, the local powerholders in the South and the peasantry. In this fascinating account, Martin Clark examines these problems and considers the economic, social, and religious contexts of Unification, as well as the diplomatic and military aspects; the roles of Cavour and Garibaldi and the wider European influences, particularly those of Britain and France; and the recent historiographical shift away from uncritical celebration of the achievement of Italian unity. Buona lettura!