9The Kingdom of Sardinia (1324–1861)

The Kingdom of Sardinia existed for centuries and became a key player in the unification of Italy.

It began as a small island kingdom but later included parts of mainland Italy. Under the leadership of King Victor Emmanuel II and his prime minister, Count Cavour, Sardinia led the efforts to unite the Italian states. In 1861, after the successful unification of Italy, the Kingdom of Sardinia became part of the Kingdom of Italy.