The early 19th century saw the beginning of the unification process of both Italy and German after the Congress of Vienna had begun the division of the states into different states. The unification process had both similarities and differences that are evident in the mode of uniting the nations to form single states. The best way to demonstrate the similarities and differences is by factoring in the causes of the splitting of the states, the processes and critical players towards the realization of the unified states.
Similarities
The Congress of Vienna in 1815 saw the division of states. Germany was divided into thirty-nine states from over three hundred states before the congress whereas Italy split into eleven states. It is thus apparent that both countries were separated at the beginning of the 19th century.
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The second similarity was the role played by unified language and heritage. The Italian states had a common language and had been unified earlier by the Roman Empire. German also states had a common origin that was united by ancient German kingdoms.
Both unifications were propagated by strong cities and leaders. The German relied on Prussia and Bismarck whereas Piedmont and Cavour for strong states and leaders respectively. Austria one of the most influential cities was a crucial factor in both countries as it wanted to lead both states but did not want to unite the states. The French Revolution and Napoleon also influenced the unification of both countries the rise of liberalism and nationalism were created.
Differences
Italian unification under the leadership of Cavour was based on diplomacy than war unlike Bismarck’s ‘Iron and Blood’ that the Prussia used to unify the German states. Italy termed as a geographical expression whereas the strength of German states made it one of the strongest in the world. The ability for Prussia to lead and win wars against Austria and the French compared to the inability of Italian states to win without any help is clear of the difference in the states' abilities and power. The unification of Italy was realized through external help whereas nationalism following Prussia’s victory over Austria.
Conclusion
It is evident that both countries unification process are intertwined and different with diplomacy and war strategies depicting the differences used to realize the unification of the states.
