Who took a diplomatic approach towards Italian unification?

The diplomat who took a key role in facilitating Italian unification was Count Camillo Benso di Cavour. He was the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia and a shrewd strategist who skillfully maneuvered Italy towards unification through diplomacy and calculated alliances.

Here's how Cavour's approach was diplomatic:

* Alliances: He forged alliances with France and Britain, securing their support against Austria, which controlled much of northern Italy. This diplomatic maneuvering led to the Austro-Sardinian War (1859), a crucial step in the unification process.

* Negotiation: Cavour was a master negotiator. He played both sides, securing concessions from Austria and France while presenting a united front against Austria.

* International legitimacy: He understood the importance of international legitimacy. He sought to gain recognition for the newly formed Kingdom of Italy, which would ultimately be achieved in 1861.

While Giuseppe Garibaldi and his "Red Shirts" are often recognized for their military contributions, it was Cavour's diplomatic strategy that laid the groundwork for Italian unification. He skillfully utilized diplomacy, alliances, and negotiation to achieve a united Italy.