Victor Emmanuel II of Italy (d. 1878)
Victor Emmanuel II, known in Italian as Vittorio Emanuele II, and formally as Vittorio Emanuele Maria Alberto Eugenio Ferdinando Tommaso di Savoia, was a pivotal figure in modern Italian history. Born in Turin on March 14, 1820, to Charles Albert, Prince of Carignano, and Maria Theresa of Austria, he would ultimately preside over the unification of Italy, earning him the enduring epithet "Padre della Patria" or "Father of the Fatherland," echoing the ancient Roman title *Pater Patriae*. His journey saw him reign as King of Sardinia from 1849 until March 17, 1861, a date forever etched in history as the moment he ascended to the throne as the first king of a truly independent, united Italy since the 6th century. This momentous title he proudly held until his death in 1878.

Early Life and Accession to the Throne

Born into the House of Savoy, a dynasty with deep roots in European royalty, Victor Emmanuel II's early life prepared him for leadership. He was the eldest son, destined to inherit the crown of Sardinia-Piedmont, a significant kingdom in northern Italy. His military training began early, and he actively participated in the First Italian War of Independence (1848–1849), a conflict aimed at expelling Austrian influence from Italian lands. Though this initial war ended in defeat, it showcased his commitment to the nationalist cause. Following his father Charles Albert's abdication in the wake of this defeat, Victor Emmanuel II was thrust onto the throne of Piedmont-Sardinia, ready to chart a new course for his kingdom and, eventually, for the entire Italian peninsula.

Forging a Nation: Strategic Leadership and International Diplomacy

Upon his accession, Victor Emmanuel II swiftly moved to consolidate his position. He made a shrewd political choice by appointing the brilliant statesman Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, as his Prime Minister. Cavour would prove to be an indispensable architect of Italian unification, expertly navigating the complex diplomatic landscape of 19th-century Europe. Together, they worked to suppress republican movements, ensuring that the drive for unity remained under monarchical leadership. A masterstroke in Cavour’s strategy, fully supported by Victor Emmanuel II, was sending an expeditionary corps to join French and British forces during the Crimean War in 1855. This deployment of Italian troops, and their valiant conduct in battles such as the Chernaya (August 16, 1855) and during the siege of Sevastopol, earned the Kingdom of Sardinia a seat at the subsequent peace conference. This crucial international platform allowed Cavour to raise the "Italian question"—the desire for a united Italy—before other major European powers, giving the cause unprecedented visibility and legitimacy. This diplomatic success laid the groundwork for a critical alliance between Victor Emmanuel II and Napoleon III, Emperor of France, which became instrumental in the Second Italian War of Independence. This conflict, in turn, resulted in the liberation of Lombardy from long-standing Austrian rule, marking a significant step towards a unified Italy.

The Expedition of the Thousand and Southern Italy's Integration

The momentum towards unification became unstoppable with Victor Emmanuel II's tacit support for Giuseppe Garibaldi's legendary Expedition of the Thousand (1860–1861). Garibaldi's daring campaign, leading a volunteer army in red shirts, rapidly swept through southern Italy, causing the swift collapse of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. This popular uprising, however, presented a delicate political challenge. As Garibaldi seemed poised to march on Rome, which was still under the Papal States and protected by French forces, Victor Emmanuel II intervened. He wisely halted Garibaldi's advance, understanding the need to avoid a direct confrontation with France and the Catholic Church that could derail the entire unification project. Meanwhile, in central Italy, regions like Tuscany, Modena, Parma, and Romagna democratically voted to align with Sardinia-Piedmont. Victor Emmanuel II then led his forces triumphantly through the Marche and Umbria following the decisive Battle of Castelfidardo against Papal forces. This military action, however, led to his excommunication from the Catholic Church, a significant cultural and political blow that would last until 1878, just before his death. Despite this, the unification progressed. In a symbolic and pivotal moment at Teano, Victor Emmanuel II met Garibaldi, receiving from him control of the newly acquired southern territories, thereby solidifying the nascent nation. On March 17, 1861, Victor Emmanuel II was formally proclaimed the first King of Italy, marking the birth of a unified nation-state.

Completing the Unification and Final Years

The unification process, known as the Risorgimento, was not yet complete. In 1866, the Third Italian War of Independence, fought in alliance with Prussia against Austria, allowed Italy to annex Veneto, further expanding the kingdom's territory. The final piece of the puzzle, Rome, remained elusive due to French protection of the Papal States. However, destiny intervened with the Franco-Prussian War in 1870. As France withdrew its troops to defend its own borders against Prussia, Victor Emmanuel seized the opportune moment. His forces marched on Rome, conquering the Papal States. On September 20, 1870, he entered Rome, and by July 2, 1871, the Eternal City officially became the new capital of Italy. Victor Emmanuel II lived out his remaining years as the revered King of a united Italy, passing away in Rome in 1878. His significant contributions to Italian history were recognized by his burial in the Pantheon, a testament to his status as a national hero. Today, the majestic Victor Emmanuel II Monument in Rome, which incorporates the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), stands as a grand tribute to his legacy and his role in the creation of modern Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Victor Emmanuel II

Who was Victor Emmanuel II?

Victor Emmanuel II was the first King of a united Italy, reigning from 1861 until his death in 1878. Prior to that, he was King of Sardinia from 1849.

What was his main achievement?

His most significant achievement was leading the Italian unification (Risorgimento) process, which brought together various independent states and foreign-controlled territories into a single, independent nation of Italy.

When did he become King of Italy?

He assumed the title of King of Italy on March 17, 1861.

What is the "Father of the Fatherland" epithet?

He was given the Italian epithet "Padre della Patria" (Father of the Fatherland) by his people, a title that honored his crucial role in creating modern Italy, borrowing from the ancient Roman title *Pater Patriae*.

Where is Victor Emmanuel II buried?

Victor Emmanuel II is buried in the Pantheon in Rome, a testament to his historical importance to Italy.

What is the Altare della Patria?

The Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) is a prominent part of the Victor Emmanuel II Monument in Rome, built in his honor. It also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.