Cosimo De Medici Research Paper

The Medici were an extremely powerful and affluent family during the European Renaissance. They ascended the socio-economic ranks of Europe from small bankers to a vital part of Florentine economy. Additionally, they held great influence, helping shape their time. Generation after generation of Medici made up high ranking members of the Church, government, and kings, as well as Europe's most important bankers.

In the middle of Medici rule, Nicolo Machiavelli crafted a literary masterpiece, The Prince, that illustrated how one could be a successful ruler. It included radical tips and guidelines that were necessary to not only become king, but also to be respected. With his advice, he claimed it would lead to personal success as well as the

Although Cosimo de Medici held great power, during his rule the Albizzi family ascended the ranks of Florence and claimed the throne. Cosimo de Medici quietly allocated all of his money to foreign accounts, and left after being banished. Cosimo de Medici was an exceptionally astute leader, and knew that the Albizzi would not be able to handle his kingdom. When it became evident to all that Albizzi were not fit, the citizens revolted and begged for a return of Medici rule. Many factors led to the return of Cosimo de Medici. Paramount, the economy crashed for two reasons, leaving a large percentage of the population broke. The first being that the Medici bank funded most of Florence’s financial activity, and the cease of construction of the library and dome left many jobless. Additionally, although the Albizzi were feared, they lacked respect from the people, both factors greatly contributing to their fall in power. When Cosimo claimed the throne, he publicly humiliated, tortured, and killed the Albizzi and all of their confidants. Through this display, he instilled enough fear in his people to not let them take advantage of him again, but planted enough love by restoring the economy and resuming construction on the dome for them to respect and worship him. The perfect combination of love and fear inculcates respect, which is necessary for all successful rulers to