Charles Albert was a significant figure in Italian history, known for his role as the King of Sardinia from 1831 to 1849. He is often remembered for his attempts to unify Italy and his support for the Italian nationalist movement during the early 19th century. His reign saw the first Italian War of Independence against the Austrian Empire, which aimed to liberate northern Italy. Despite his initial successes, Charles Albert faced challenges and ultimately abdicated in 1849 after a defeat at the Battle of Novara. His legacy is intertwined with the broader movement for Italian unification, which would later be realized under leaders like Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Camillo di Cavour.