How did Giuseppe Mazzini's vision of Italian unification differ from that of Camillo di Cavour?

Giuseppe Mazzini and Camillo di Cavour were two key figures in the unification of Italy, but they had different visions for how this unification should occur.

1. Giuseppe Mazzini: Mazzini was a passionate advocate of Italian nationalism and republicanism. He believed in the idea of a united Italy as a democratic republic, free from foreign control. Mazzini's vision was based on the principle of popular sovereignty, meaning that the people should have the power to govern themselves. He also believed in the concept of a "nation of the people," where all Italians, regardless of their social or economic status, would have equal rights and responsibilities. Mazzini's vision was revolutionary and idealistic, and he sought to achieve it through popular uprisings and revolutions.

2. Camillo di Cavour: On the other hand, Cavour was a pragmatic statesman and a moderate nationalist. He believed in a more gradual and diplomatic approach to unification. Cavour's vision was to unify Italy under the leadership of the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia, with the support of foreign powers, particularly France. He sought to achieve this through diplomatic negotiations, political alliances, and limited wars. Cavour's vision was more conservative and realistic, and he was willing to compromise on certain principles to achieve his goal.

In conclusion, while both Mazzini and Cavour wanted a unified Italy, their visions differed significantly. Mazzini's vision was based on the principles of republicanism, popular sovereignty, and social equality, and he sought to achieve it through revolutionary means. In contrast, Cavour's vision was based on the principles of constitutional monarchy, diplomatic negotiation, and political pragmatism, and he sought to achieve it through more conservative and diplomatic means.