The last revolution

This flow traces the Florios’ response to Garibaldi’s campaign and the uncertain transition from Bourbon rule to Italian unity.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Choosing to remain

Choosing to remain A dangerous city After the Gancia uprising and the execution of rebels, Vincenzo Florio wants his son Ignazio to leave Palermo. He fears that another rebellion will expose the family to violence. Duty over safety Ignazio refuses to go to Marseille, arguing that Casa Florio needs him and that he can gather news. His decision reflects both loyalty to the family and an emerging public role. The father’s fear and the son’s composure place two generations’ ideas of responsibility in direct opposition.

A bargain with Crispi

A bargain with Crispi Information exchanged As Giuseppe Garibaldi’s forces approach, Vincenzo Florio gives Francesco Crispi confidential information about the Royal Bank. In return, he seeks protection for the family’s business and support for a new credit institution. Interests over allegiance Vincenzo points out that he previously served Bourbon needs and now offers help to the revolution. He does not present the change as conversion but as a response to whoever controls the future. The negotiation makes political opportunism explicit while also showing that the Florios’ resources are valuable to every new authority.

The new rulers arrive

The new rulers arrive Palermo changes hands Garibaldi’s campaign succeeds and the Bourbon government collapses. Vincenzo and Ignazio Florio work with the provisional authorities to preserve their ships and commercial position. Disillusion after unity The Kingdom of Sardinia imposes its systems on Sicily, and Vincenzo sees the island treated as a conquered territory. Political change does not settle the question of local autonomy. The family survives by adapting, but the transition leaves Vincenzo skeptical that any new government will protect Sicily’s interests.

April 1860

May 1860

May 1860 to 1866