First Italian War of Independence

The First Italian War of Independence (1848–1849) was a conflict where the Kingdom of Sardinia sought to unite Italy and free its northern regions from Austrian control. Sparked by popular revolts and nationalist movements, Sardinia declared war on Austria, which ruled northern Italy. Despite initial hopes, the war faced setbacks; Sardinian forces struggled against well-prepared Austrian armies, especially at the Battle of Novara. The conflict ended with a defeat for Sardinia, resulting in temporary Austrian control over parts of northern Italy. Nonetheless, it laid the groundwork for future efforts toward Italian unification.