He demonstrated the fact that "traditional autonomist feelings and inter-communal rivalries were still strong".

He had travelled only as far South as Tuscany and had no intentions of going any lower. Cavour's desire to create a Northern Kingdom of Italy can be seen in his reaction to Garibaldi's expedition to the South. The expedition had taken place despite Cavour's clear objection to the idea. "Cavour therefore did all he could, to prevent Garibaldi from setting out for Sicily". Thus, Cavour's rebellious approach to Garibaldi's mission demonstrates his wish to reject the Southern states. Hence, the preceding evidence displays Cavour's belief that unification with the South would be futile and that only a conglomerate of the Northern states would flourish. In conclusion, it is clear to see that historians collectively seem to be confused with what Cavour desired first and foremost; the furthering of Piedmont as a state, the creation of a Northern Kingdom of Italy, or total unification. There are arguments suggesting that he was and was not dedicated to unification. Many believe that through his wish to create an Italy free from foreign influence, displayed within his journal 'Il Risorgimento', and his close relationship with France and Britain, Cavour revealed his desire for a united Italian Kingdom. However, the strongest argument remains; Cavour's poor relationship with Italian nationalists and his willingness to overlook the South in order to create a Northern Kingdom demonstrate Cavour's lack of dedication to the creation of Italy. He appeared only to shine to the idea of total unification once Garibaldi had succeeded in his expedition to the South and when public opinion seemed to be one of excitement towards the unification of Italy.