Vittorio Emanuele II of Italy (Vittorio Emanuele II, King of Italy)

Vittorio Emanuele II was the first king of unified Italy, reigning from 1861 to 1878. He was a key figure in Italy’s unification movement, known as the Risorgimento, which united various independent states into a single nation. As king, he worked to consolidate the newly formed kingdom and promote national identity. His leadership helped transform Italy from a collection of separate entities into a unified state. Vittorio Emanuele II is often called the "Father of the Fatherland" for his role in shaping modern Italy’s foundation and sovereignty.