Step behind the curtain of history as we dissect the Italian Wars—a tapestry of strategy and bloodshed that forever altered the landscape of Renaissance Italy. Be prepared to unravel the aftermath of Charles VIII's invasion of 1494, and the relentless dance of power that ensued: Louis XII's ascension and territorial hunger, the Aragonese dynasty's fall in Naples, Ludovico Sforza's dramatic downfall, and the iron resolve of Pope Julius II, the Warrior Pope. Feel the pulse of Venice's tenacity as they reclaim their dominions, and observe the chess-like moves of powerhouses France, the Holy Roman Empire, and Spain. As Florence weaves through the political labyrinthi, and the Holy League forms to challenge French supremacy, our episode paints a vivid portrait of an Italy caught in the whirlwind of its most transformative era. This period of tumult and upheaval will be the backdrop of Machiavelli's most famous work: The Prince.

Resources:
Battles of the Italian Wars 1495-1513
House of Valois
Kings of Spain
Habsburg Dynasty
Duchy of Milan
The Medici
Kingdom of Naples
Key Players 1495-1513

Map of Italy, 1494
The Italian Wars 1494-1559: War, State, and Society in Early Modern Europe by Michael E. Mallett

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Intro Music: Hayden Symphony #39
Outro Music: Vivaldi Concerto for Mandolin and Strings in D

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