The Second Italian War of Independence took place from 1859 to 1861, primarily involving the Kingdom of Sardinia and the Austrian Empire. This conflict aimed to liberate northern Italian territories from Austrian control and was part of the broader movement for Italian unification, known as the Risorgimento. Key battles occurred at places like Magenta and Solferino, leading to significant victories for the Sardinian forces. The war was supported by various nationalist groups, including the famous leader Giuseppe Garibaldi. The conflict concluded with the Treaty of Zurich, which resulted in the annexation of Lombardy to the Kingdom of Sardinia, furthering the cause of a unified Italy.