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The Medicis
The best known of the Medicis was Cosimo’s grandson,
Lorenzo, who was known as “Lorenzo the Magnificent.” Lorenzo
was not only a shrewd banker and clever politician; he was also a scholar
and a poet. Under Lorenzo’s leadership, Florence became one of the
most beautiful and prosperous cities in Italy, as well as a center of
the Renaissance. |
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In
the 15th century, the leading families of Florence decided they needed
a strong person in charge to lead them against the growing threat of rival
cities. They chose Cosimo de Medici, a wealthy banker, to take control
of the government. Cosimo maintained the appearance of republican government,
but he appointed his relatives and people he could control to important
positions. When Cosimo died in 1464, his son and grandson continued his
policies. The Medici maintained control by exiling people who disagreed
with them and encouraging other Italian cities to form alliances with
Florence.