The notion that the Italian tradition of chemical research was born with Raffaele Piria and his pupils, particularly Stanislao Cannizzaro, has been a long-standing concept. However, this idea has been disputed by scholars in the 1930s, who highlighted the existence of valuable schools and researchers before Italy's unification. While it is true that chemical research in Italy was not entirely absent before Piria and Cannizzaro, it was these two scientists who devised a comprehensive and institutionalized research program for the field in Italy. This approach was previously only embryonic, existing in the intentions of the chemical community.
Piria and Cannizzaro's work laid the foundation for a truly national program in Italian chemistry, which would go on to shape the country's scientific landscape. Their contributions were instrumental in creating a sense of cohesion and direction within the Italian chemical community, guiding research efforts and inspiring future generations of scientists.
The legacy of Piria and Cannizzaro continues to be felt today, with their work serving as a testament to the power of collaborative research and the importance of a unified national program in driving scientific progress. Their impact on the development of Italian chemistry has been profound, and their influence can still be seen in the country's research institutions, academic programs, and scientific output.