Kingdom of Sardinia mobilizes against Austria, beginning the crisis before the Austro-Sardinian War (1859)

The crisis preceding the Austro-Sardinian War began with diplomatic agreements between France and Sardinia, culminating in a military alliance in January 1859. Sardinia mobilized its army in March 1859, prompting Austrian counter-mobilization and an ultimatum demanding demobilization. This escalation, rooted in the Plombières meeting, set the stage for the conflict against Austria.

Episodes

Background and detail

Diplomatic Origins. In July 1858, Count Cavour and Napoleon III met at Plombières-les-Bains. They agreed that Piedmont would provoke war with Austria, with France aiding Piedmont in exchange for Nice and Savoy. This secret treaty of alliance was signed on 28 January 1859, formalizing the military cooperation against the Austrian Empire.

Mobilization and Ultimatum. Sardinia mobilized its army on 9 March 1859. Austria responded by mobilizing on 9 April and issuing an ultimatum on 23 April, demanding the complete demobilization of the Sardinian Army. These actions escalated tensions, leading directly to the outbreak of the Second Italian War of Independence.

Key Figures. Camillo Cavour, a leading figure in Italian unification, orchestrated the diplomatic strategy. Victor Emmanuel II, King of Sardinia, supported the campaign. Napoleon III, Emperor of France, agreed to aid Piedmont against Austria, though he later sought a separate peace due to concerns about Prussian mobilization.

People involved

Sources

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