"The world has rarely witnessed a man such as Giuseppe Garibaldi. Never in the course of world history has anyone shown such heroism, decisiveness, faith, and self-reliance." So begins this epic tale of the life and adventures of Giuseppe Garibaldi (1807-1882), the great patriot who unified Italy. Blending history and fantasy, the story focuses on Garibaldi, from his late teens to mid-twenties, as his crusade for justice began. Drawn to life at sea, Garibaldi left home at fifteen and was certified as a merchant marine captain by the age of twenty-five. His love for his country and his people inspired him to join, and eventually lead, the fight against France and Austria to unite Italy, which had been splintered into embattled states. This thrilling tale follows Garibaldi through sea voyages, dangerous missions, daring escapes from prison and execution, and adventures with allies, enemies, and women. With his rallying cry, "Viva Italia, Long Live Italy!" Garibaldi eventually succeeded in uniting the small states under one flag. Considered the father of modern Italy, Garibaldi remains a hero in the history of his country.