Azeglio, Massimo Taparelli, Marquese d' 1798-1866
Italian politician, painter and novelist

Born in Piedmont, he was influenced by his friend Cesare Balbo and the exiled Vincenzo Gioberti, and he developed a moderate, patriotic programme with his famous Degli ultimi casi di Romagna (1846). As well as developing Balbo and Gioberti's ideas, he succeeded them as Piedmontese Prime Minister, replacing the latter in 1849 and retaining the post until 1852. During his period of office, extensive anticlerical legislation was initiated which was to continue under his successor, Camillo, Conte di Cavour. In 1860 d'Azeglio was made Governor of Milan after its acquisition from the Austrians, but he remained unenthusiastic about the annexation of the south of Italy.