Dai Lorena ai Savoia: la transizione dal Granducato di Toscana al Regno d’Italia tra il 1859 e il 1861

Abstract

From Lorraine to Savoy: the transition from Grand Duchy of Tuscany to Kingdom of Italy between 1859 and 1861 – This essay aims to analyze from both a constitutional and historical point of view the dissolution of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and the peaceful transition towards the annexation of Tuscany first to the Kingdom of Sardinia (then Italy), characterized by the departure of the reigning Habsburg-Lorraine family and the establishment of a provisional government before the plebiscite of 1860. This process, although quick and peaceful, was slowed down by the attachment of the Tuscans to the previous institutions and legislation, which were more advanced and respectful of local autonomy than those of the Kingdom of Sardinia.

Keywords: Grand Duchy of Tuscany; Italian unification; Plebiscite; Institutional change; Provisional government