How does Cavour describe his meeting with Emperor Napoleon III and what kind of strategy is discussed to help unify the Italian states?

Count Camillo di Cavour describes his meeting with Emperor Napoleon III as a significant and strategic encounter that laid the groundwork for the unification of Italy. Cavour sought to secure French support against Austria, which was then a dominant power in Italy and a barrier to unification.

1. Cavour's Perspective: Cavour viewed Napoleon III as a potential ally who could provide military assistance. He described the meeting as cordial and diplomatic, emphasizing the importance of the French emperor’s support in the unification process.

2. Strategy Discussed: The primary strategy discussed involved a military alliance between France and the Kingdom of Sardinia (Piedmont). Cavour proposed that the French would help Sardinia in the event of military conflict with Austria, which would weaken Austrian influence in Italy and allow for the consolidation of various Italian states under Sardinian leadership.

3. Immediate Goals: The immediate goal was to instigate a war against Austria, which Cavour believed would rally the Italian states to support Sardinia and facilitate the unification process. Cavour’s strategy relied heavily on the use of diplomacy to forge alliances and the potential use of military action to achieve political objectives.

4. Long-term Vision: Cavour’s long-term vision included a unified Italy that was not only politically centralized but also economically robust. He recognized that the support of powerful allies like France was crucial in maneuvering through the complex political landscape of the time.

In summary, Cavour's meeting with Napoleon III was characterized by a strategic partnership aimed at weakening Austria's hold on Italy and promoting the unification of the Italian states through military and diplomatic means.