19th-century Italy
In the 19th century, Italy was a collection of independent states and kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Sardinia, the Papal States, and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. This period was marked by a strong desire for unification, known as Risorgimento, which aimed to consolidate these regions into a single nation. Key figures in this movement included Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Camillo di Cavour.
The unification process culminated in 1861 when the Kingdom of Italy was officially proclaimed. This new nation faced various challenges, including economic disparities and regional tensions. The 19th century also saw significant cultural developments, with the rise of Italian literature and art, reflecting the country's rich history and diverse influences.