What were the long term consequences of the Italian Unification?

Prior to
unification, the Italian peninsula was made up of a consortium of fragmented states which were
conquered and rebuilt as republics by the French but were later vanquished by the Russian and
Austrian armies. The first development of republics in these disjointed states introduced the
idea of a government and society that provided freedom and equality. This revolution instilled
in the populace the need to focus on nationalism. This growing sense of nationalism led to the
eventual unification. The Italian Unification earned Italy its independence and built its
capacity to influence regional politics. Italy as a unified state had the capacity to build its
armies to protect its sovereignty.  A unified Italy developed its ability and capacity to trade
with other nations and even build relations with nations such as the United States who offered
citizenship and immigration opportunities.