Answer: The correct answer is A) Separate Italian kingdoms unified into a single Italy.
Explanation: In the mid-nineteenth century, Italy underwent a process of unification known as the Risorgimento. Prior to unification, Italy was divided into various separate kingdoms and city-states, and was often controlled by foreign powers such as Austria.
During this period, Italian nationalists worked to bring about a united Italian state, with the goal of creating a strong and independent nation. The process of unification was led by figures such as Giuseppe Garibaldi and Camillo di Cavour, and involved both military conflicts and diplomatic negotiations.
In 1861, the Kingdom of Italy was officially established, with Victor Emmanuel II as its first king. However, it took several more years for all Italian territories to be brought under the control of the new state, with the final unification of Italy occurring in 1871.