How did strong leaders and nation building transform italy, germany and russia?

Became unified, nationalist countries--Each of these countries became modern sovereign nations in the mid- to late 1800s. 

Germany and Italy both unified as nations bringing their people together under one country and one government. This led to industrialization movements in both creating modern countries. 
Russia reformed to include the end of serfdom, inclusion of a parliament, and a modern transportation and industrial system.