Annexation of Nice

The Annexation of Nice occurred in 1860 when France formally took control of the region, which had been part of the Kingdom of Sardinia. This action was influenced by the desire for Italian unification and strategic interests. The French government, led by Emperor Napoleon III, sought to expand its territory, while local leaders favored joining France. A referendum was held, and the majority of residents voted in favor of the annexation. This acquisition strengthened France’s border and reflected the shifting political landscape of 19th-century Europe during the era of nation-building and territorial realignment.