The influential military leader known for the unification of Italy is Giuseppe Garibaldi. Active in the mid-19th century, Garibaldi played a crucial role in the Risorgimento, the Italian unification movement. His leadership in various campaigns, especially the Expedition of the Thousand (1860), helped consolidate disparate states into a unified Kingdom of Italy. Garibaldi's ideals of nationalism and liberty resonated deeply with Italian people, making him a celebrated hero and symbol of national identity.