1. Italy In 1896 Session Objectives
To consider the state and unity of Italy in 1896
To understand the origins of the Italian State
To analyse the problems faced by the Liberal Government
What does this picture show us?

2. The formation of Italy How had Italy existed prior to 1870?
In what way did Italy experience a ‘rebirth’ around 1815?
How did Italy become independent, why was the role of Piedmont important?

3. Liberal Italy
Using pages 5 -9 create an A3 mind map that cover the main problems facing Liberal Italy.
Ensure you include the points below:
Catholic Church
Economic Weakness
Lack of Italian Identity (Cultural)
Weaknesses of the Liberal Political system (Political)
Challenges to Liberal dominance (Catholics and Socialists)

4. Problems facing Liberal Italy
Weakness of
Liberal
Political
System
Hostility of
Catholic
Church
Lack of Italian
Italians
Economic
Weaknesses
Rapid
Turnover of
government
Liberal
Factions
Poverty worst
In South
Growing Political threats
Nationalism
Socialism
Catholicism

5. Homework
Research the Battle of Adowah 1896 and be prepared to discuss the significance of the battle

6. Liberal Foreign Policy
Successful foreign policy thought to make more Italians identify with the country – however, high cost of war may make them discontent
Italy wanted to rival Great Powers of Europe; gaining colonies
Had eye on Tunisia, but taken by France, 1881
Italy joined anti-French Triple Alliance with Austria-Hungary and Germany, 1882
Built up influence in Horn of Africa
Military Defeat
Attempted to take over Abyssinia (Ethiopia), 1896, but defeated at Adowa
Italy suffered 15,000 casualties, Italian prisoners castrated – humiliating (unsurprisingly)

7. Extension What were the main Liberal Beliefs and Aims
What were the key political and economic problems facing the Italian Regime?
List the main criticisms of the Liberal Political System
How did Liberals defend their political system?

8. Essay
To what extent was Italy politically and economically united in the years ?