Victor Amadeus II of Savoy

Victor Amadeus II of Savoy (1666–1732) was a ruler of the Duchy of Savoy, a region in what's now northern Italy and southwestern France. He became Duke in 1675 and later king of Sicily in 1713, and then king of Sardinia from 1720. Known for strengthening his state's military and diplomatic position, he played a key role in European alliances and wars, including the War of Spanish Succession. His reign laid the groundwork for the future unification of Italy. He was the father of the famous King Charles Emmanuel III.