Standard Italian is the official language of Italy and is based on the Tuscan dialect, particularly the Florentine variety. It emerged in the 14th century, largely influenced by the works of writers like Dante Alighieri, Petrarch, and Boccaccio. Standard Italian is used in government, education, and media, making it a unifying language for the diverse dialects spoken across the country. The language is characterized by its clear pronunciation and grammar rules, which are taught in schools. Standard Italian is also one of the official languages of Switzerland and is recognized in some regions of Croatia and Slovenia. It plays a significant role in Italian culture, literature, and arts.