Savoy

Savoy, powerful dynasty of northwestern Italy that at times ruled portions of Italy, France, and Switzerland. It was founded in the 11th century by Humbert, whose holdings were in the regions of Savoy and Piedmont. Savoy holdings extended into France and Switzerland by the 15th century. Its control in Italy expanded in the 18th and 19th centuries, helping to consolidate rule of the peninsula, and a member of the family, Victor Emmanuel II, became king of Italy in 1861. Victor Emmanuel II was succeeded by his son Humbert I, who was assassinated (1900), Victor Emmanuel III, who abdicated after World War II, and Humbert II, whose brief reign ended (1946) when Italy became a republic.

See also: Italy.