The Medici: Rise of a Parvenu Dynasty (1360-1537)

The Medici family was a powerful and influential dynasty in Florence, Italy, from the 13th to the 17th centuries. They were involved in banking, politics, and the arts, and they played a major role in the development of the Italian Renaissance.

The Medici: Rise of a Parvenu Dynasty, 1360-1537

by Danny Chaplin

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	270 pages
Item Weight	:	13.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.61 x 9 inches
File size	:	2790 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	649 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Origins of the Medici Family

The Medici family originated in the town of Mugello, north of Florence. In the 13th century, they moved to Florence and became involved in the city's wool trade. By the 14th century, the Medici had become one of the wealthiest families in Florence.

The Medici's rise to power began with Giovanni di Bicci de' Medici (1360-1429). Giovanni was a successful banker who used his wealth to gain political influence in Florence. He served as Gonfaloniere di Giustizia, the highest office in the city, from 1421 to 1429.

Giovanni's son, Cosimo de' Medici (1389-1464),was even more successful than his father. Cosimo was a skilled diplomat and politician who ruled Florence for over 30 years. He was also a patron of the arts, and he commissioned many of the great works of art that are now on display in Florence.

The Medici Dynasty

The Medici dynasty reached its peak under Lorenzo de' Medici (1449-1492). Lorenzo was a brilliant scholar, poet, and diplomat. He was also a patron of the arts, and he commissioned some of the most famous works of the Italian Renaissance, including Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's Birth of Venus.

After Lorenzo's death, the Medici dynasty declined. His son, Piero de' Medici (1472-1503),was a weak and ineffective ruler. He was overthrown in 1494 by the forces of the French king, Charles VIII.

The Medici family returned to power in 1512, but they were again overthrown in 1527. This time, the Medici were driven out of Florence by the forces of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V.

The Medici Legacy

The Medici family had a profound impact on Florence and the Italian Renaissance. They were patrons of the arts, and they commissioned some of the greatest works of art of all time. They were also involved in politics, and they played a major role in the development of the Italian city-state system.

The Medici's rise to power is a classic example of the rise of a parvenu dynasty. They were not from a noble family, but they used their wealth and influence to gain political power. The Medici's story is a reminder that anyone can achieve great things, regardless of their background.

**Image Alt Attributes:**

* **Cosimo de' Medici:** Portrait of Cosimo de' Medici, founder of the Medici dynasty * **Lorenzo de' Medici:** Portrait of Lorenzo de' Medici, the Magnificent * **Medici Palace:** Palazzo Medici, the family's residence in Florence * **Medici Coat of Arms:** The Medici coat of arms, featuring six red balls on a gold background * **David by Michelangelo:** Statue of David commissioned by Lorenzo de' Medici

The Medici: Rise of a Parvenu Dynasty, 1360-1537

by Danny Chaplin

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	270 pages
Item Weight	:	13.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.61 x 9 inches
File size	:	2790 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	649 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE