Michael Nalbandyan (1829-1866) - Michael Nalbandyan was a pivotal figure in the development of Armenian national and literary consciousness in the 19th century, whose poetry and activism played a crucial role in the awakening of Armenian national identity. Born in New Nakhijevan, Nalbandyan's works are marked by their revolutionary zeal, advocating for freedom, equality, and justice. His poem "The Song of an Italian Girl," set to music, became an anthem Republic of Armenia. Nalbandyan's commitment to social and political reform, combined with his literary talent, made him a beacon for progressive thought in Armenia and beyond. Despite his untimely death, Nalbandyan's legacy as a poet, thinker, and national hero continues to inspire the quest for freedom and dignity among the Armenian people.