There are various similarities and differences observed in the methods used by Cavour and Bismarck to bring about the unification of Italy and Germany. A similarity is observed when both leaders: applied the use of diplomacy and military action to attain their countries unification; Both leaders further used a political tactic known as realpolitik which was characterized by the employment of unethical and dishonest diplomatic means to attain unification in Italy and Germany. However, they differed on what tactic to use in their unification process. Bismark opted for direct engagement in the war while Cavour preferred diplomacy to manipulate other nations in the military activities.