The Romanian Unification refers to the process that led to the formation of modern Romania in the 19th century. It primarily involved the unification of the principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia in 1859, when Alexandru Ioan Cuza was elected as the ruler of both regions. This event marked the beginning of a new political entity that sought to consolidate Romanian territories. The unification was further solidified in 1866 when Cuza was replaced by Carol I, who played a crucial role in modernizing the country. In 1877, Romania declared independence from the Ottoman Empire, which was officially recognized in 1878, further establishing Romania as a unified and sovereign state.