“Garibaldi was the most significant leader in the process of Italian unification.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement. Candidates may refer to Garibaldi’s key contribution, which was to lead the Thousand Red Shirts in an expedition to Sicily, defeating the Neapolitan forces in a series of battles from May to October 1860. Candidates may argue that aside from his military success, Garibaldi’s political decision to accept the unification of Italy under the Piedmontese monarchy was also very significant. Garibaldi’s role in defending the Roman Republic in 1849 could also be mentioned as a source of inspiration for Italian nationalists. On the other hand, some candidates may challenge the statement and highlight the role of other leaders in Italian unification, for example Cavour, Mazzini, Victor Emmanuel II, or even Napoleon III. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.

The question required candidates to offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Garibaldi was the most significant leader in the process of Italian unification. Some excellent responses were seen with good depth of knowledge and an ability to discuss the role of Garibaldi and that of other leaders; chiefly Cavour.