The Savoyard dynasty was a royal family that originated in the region of Savoy, which is now part of France and Italy. Established in the 11th century, the dynasty played a significant role in European history, particularly in the formation of the modern state of Italy. The House of Savoy became known for its strategic marriages and territorial expansion. In 1861, the Savoyard dynasty became the ruling house of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy. King Victor Emmanuel II was the first king of this unified state, marking a pivotal moment in Italian history. The dynasty continued to reign until the monarchy was abolished in 1946, leading to the establishment of the Italian Republic.