Francesco Crispi was an Italian politician and a key figure in the unification of Italy during the 19th century. Born on April 4, 1818, in Ragusa, Sicily, he initially worked as a lawyer before becoming involved in politics. Crispi was a strong supporter of the Italian nationalist movement and played a significant role in the Risorgimento, the period of Italian unification. Crispi served as Prime Minister of Italy twice, first from 1887 to 1891 and then from 1893 to 1896. His leadership was marked by efforts to modernize the Italian economy and expand its colonial presence, particularly in Africa. Despite his initial successes, his later years in power were marred by political challenges and military failures. He died on August 12, 1907.