1. Unification and Centralization:
Prior to the Risorgimento, Italy was divided into several independent states and regions. The movement brought these fragmented territories under a single unified nation, leading to the centralization of political power in the hands of the central government. This marked a shift from decentralized and regional rule to a unified national administration.
2. Constitutional Monarchy:
The Kingdom of Italy, established in 1861, adopted a constitutional monarchy as its form of government. This constitutional framework defined the powers and responsibilities of the monarch and established the principle of popular sovereignty. The constitution provided for a bicameral parliament, further establishing democratic institutions.
3. Universal Male Suffrage:
The Risorgimento paved the way for the introduction of universal male suffrage in Italy. In 1861, the new Italian state granted the right to vote to all male citizens over the age of 21 who met certain literacy and property requirements. While this was not universal suffrage in its truest sense, it represented significant progress in democratizing the political process.
4. Limited Democracy:
Although the Risorgimento brought about many democratic reforms, Italy's early government could still be characterized as a limited democracy. Only a small portion of the population, primarily male property owners, had the right to vote. Women, the poor, and certain social groups did not have full political representation.
5. Challenges to Central Authority:
The unification process under the Risorgimento also faced challenges to central authority from various regions and groups within Italy. Tensions and conflicts arose between different political ideologies, regional loyalties, and social divisions. These challenges continued to shape Italian politics and governance for years after unification.
In summary, the Risorgimento had a significant impact on the government of Italy, leading to the unification of the country under a constitutional monarchy and introducing important democratic reforms such as universal male suffrage. However, it also left room for further democratic development and the resolution of regional and social tensions within the new nation-state.
