Italian nationalism is a political and cultural movement that emerged in the 19th century, aiming to unify the various states and regions of the Italian peninsula into a single nation. This movement was fueled by a desire for independence from foreign rule and the aspiration to create a cohesive national identity, which was often symbolized by the figure of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key leader in the unification process. The culmination of Italian nationalism was the unification of Italy in 1861, which brought together disparate territories under the Kingdom of Italy. This period saw the rise of national symbols, such as the Italian flag and the national anthem, which helped foster a sense of shared identity among Italians. The movement also influenced cultural expressions, including literature and art, that celebrated Italy's rich history and heritage.