Otto von Bismarck, head of the Prussian government, in preparing for a conflict against Austria, a direct competitor for hegemony in the German-speaking world, and having secured the neutrality of Russia and France, sought an ally interested in a war against Austria. This ally could only be Italy. The request arrived on the desk of Alfonso La Marmora in Florence in early 1866. The Kingdom of Italy’s military expenditures amounted to 25-30% of the country’s total, and international financial uncertainties were a matter of widespread concern. Despite opposition, La Marmora nevertheless sent one of his best generals, Giuseppe Govone, to Berlin. He then consulted Paris, and when he learned of the Emperor’s favorable opinion, he moved even more quickly toward war. In reality, the Emperor assured Italy that whatever the outcome of the conflict, Veneto would become Italian. Surprisingly, the same assurance came through Austrian diplomatic channels. For over 40 years, in fact, Veneto has done nothing but cause problems for Vienna, which would therefore gladly cede it in exchange for good relations with the Kingdom of Italy.
