Why Italy Became a State Only in 1861 — and Still Does Not Feel Like a Single Country

Italy existed long before 1861 as a geographical space and a cultural civilisation, but not as a single state. Political unification created a kingdom, not an instant national community. Language, school, migration, the Church, regional inequalities and local loyalties all shaped a slower and unfinished process. Italy is united by institutions and shared experiences, yet remains made up of overlapping identities whose differences become damaging only when they turn into inequality or mutual indifference.

Symbolic view of Italy linking Turin, Rome, Naples, Milan and Trieste through railway lines, local scenes and historical maps

Italy, United Yet Plural Credits: Image generated with AI technology

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08/01/2026 Modified 21/07/2026 10:15

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