What were the main causes and consequences of the French involvement in the Second Italian War of Independence?

The Second Italian War of Independence was a conflict that occurred between 1859 and 1861, in which the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont, aided by France, defeated the Austrian Empire. The conflict arose due to several factors, including nationalist sentiments among the Italian population, the desire for territorial expansion by the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont, and the weakening of Austria as a result of the Crimean War.

France, under Emperor Napoleon III, had its own motivations for becoming involved in the conflict. The emperor saw the war as an opportunity to increase French influence in Italy and weaken Austria's power in the region. In addition, France hoped to obtain territorial concessions from Austria in return for its assistance.

The French army played a significant role in the war, providing much-needed military support to the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont. With French aid, the Kingdom was able to defeat the Austrian forces and expand its territories, ultimately leading to the unification of Italy in 1861.

The consequences of French involvement in the war were far-reaching. France's increased influence in Italy would eventually lead to the establishment of the Italian Republic and the end of the Papal States. In addition, France's victory over Austria further weakened the Austrian Empire, setting the stage for the rise of Prussia and the unification of Germany.