The reunification of the Ionian Islands with Greece ended a period of British control that had begun in 1815 following the Congress of Vienna. These islands were ceded to Britain as a protectorate, and during this time, they underwent various administrative changes while also maintaining a degree of local culture. In the mid-19th century, national sentiment in Greece had grown considerably, with many Greek inhabitants on the islands expressing a desire to reunite with their homeland. The context of rising nationalism throughout Europe provided a favorable backdrop for this reunification. The decision for reunification was greatly influenced by both Greek and British political leaders, including Ionios Dimos and the British government who sought to alleviate their responsibilities in the region. On May 21, the British formally handed over the islands in a ceremony held in front of the Queen of Greece statue in Corfu, accompanied by celebrations among the residents, who viewed this as a restoration of their national identity.