Here's why:
* Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia: Cavour was the mastermind behind Piedmont-Sardinia's strategic alliances and political maneuvering. He understood the importance of international relations and used them to his advantage.
* Diplomacy and War: Cavour skillfully navigated alliances with France and Austria, ultimately using the Second Italian War of Independence (1859) to wrest control of Lombardy from Austria. He also supported the annexation of the Papal States and the Kingdom of Naples.
* Economic Development: Cavour recognized the importance of a strong economy to support unification. He implemented policies to boost industrialization and infrastructure, which would provide the resources needed for a unified Italy.
While other figures, like Giuseppe Garibaldi, played crucial roles in the unification process, Cavour's strategic brilliance, diplomatic skills, and political maneuvering are widely considered the key factors in bringing Italy together.