1820’s Italian Revolutions

Naples - Causes The Bourbon monarchy was restored in Naples. Ferdinand I was king Ferdinand increased the churches power to censor books, newspapers and magazines which reduced the publics freedom of speech. He also cut back on public spending and reduced education The Bourbon monarchy had financial problems because it had to pay for the Austrian army of occupation and compensation to the French viceroy. There was a fall in agricultural prices which lowered trade in the port

Naples - Revolution In 1820 a revolution was led by a priest who was supported by 100 junior officers and cavalry soldiers, and 30 members of the Carbonari They targeted a town called Avellino and gained more support. They met little opposition and General Guglielmo Pepe led one infantry and two cavalry regiments to join the army and become its leader. On the 6th of July Ferdinand agreed to a new constitution that met the rebels demands. It gave the vote to all adult men, limited the kings power and abolished many noble and clerical privileges Pepe was put in charge of the army and a new government was sworn in. Even though the Cardonari gained members they disagreed often and had no more polices other than wanting a new constitution.

The revolutions in Sicily 1821

-Stories of revolutions in Naples spread to Sicily and there was unrest in the capital. Palermo. - It was in support of the new constitution and was led by the workers of Palermo who belonged to the guilds of the city (Maestranze). - There was little in their demands that suggested any nationalist sentiment. -The revolution was confined to Palermo and others in Sicily showed little sympathy.

The events did not go un-noticed in the rest of Europe and worried the Austrian foreign minister Prince Metternich. He called an international congress at Troppau in October 1820 to discuss the issue. Metternich was the sworn enemy of revolutionary activity across Europe. The Troppau Doctrine was agree by Eastern powers but not by Europe.

In January 1921 Metternich called another Congress at Laibach and invited Ferdinand to attend Once out of Naples, Ferdinand renounced the constitution and asked the Austrians for military support to crush his own government. In March 1921, Austrian troops entered Naples and the revolutionary government was crushed. Ferdinand unleashed a wave of repression and a number of Cabonari were executed. The importance of the Austrians as the ultimate arbitrators of Italian political life could clearly be seen

Revolt in Piedmont 1821

Origins + Proposals Started from the secret society the Carbonari + Santorre di Satarosa They sought a constitutional monarchy which they thought could be used to end Austrian Influence, and then make Charles Albert King.

Uprisings Inspired by the Neapolitans, In March 1821 they seized the fortress of Alessandria and declared a provisional government. Spread to Turin and king Victor mutinied and decided to abdicate to his brother Charles Felix. However he was in Modena so Charles Albert was appointed regent.

Were they Nationalists? They declared Charles Albert the King of Italy. They made all of their demands in name of ITALIAN FEDERATION. Nationally minded in wanting to oust the Austrians HOWEVER....

Demise of the New Government Charles Albert issued a constitution Felix returns doesn't accept any change in government Albert Flees Small army raised by Santorre di Satarosa, defeated by Piedmontese troops and Austrians. Ruled by Felix until 1831