Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour becomes Prime Minister of Piedmont-Sardinia

Background. Cavour was a leading figure in the Historical Right and had previously served as Minister of Agriculture, Commerce, and Navy in 1850. He gained a promotion to Minister of Finance in 1851. His political influence grew through economic reforms in Piedmont and the founding of the newspaper Il Risorgimento, setting the stage for his eventual leadership.

Political Transition. The transition to Cavour's premiership was facilitated by the Connubio, a coalition uniting moderate men of the Right and Left. This alliance led to the fall of the d'Azeglio cabinet in November 1852. Consequently, a liberal ministry under Cavour was installed, marking a significant shift in the governance of the Kingdom of Sardinia.

Context. At the time of his appointment, Piedmont had recently suffered a major defeat by Austria. Despite this military setback, Cavour's rise to power was supported by his knowledge of European markets and modern economics. His administration was characterized by controversial methods, including the use of emergency powers and election rigging, which were common practices of the era.