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A History of ItalyA journey through time from the fall of the Roman Empire Author: Mike Corradi
Join history buff, Mike Corradi on a journey through time as he unfolds the rich tapestry of the Italian peninsula's history. This chronological story starts with the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and leads you through the most iconic events, influential figures, and cultural milestones that have shaped Italy into what we see today. Its all serious stuff, but we do take time to stop and laugh at battles over a bucket, rude names, naughty priests and popes, rabbits winning sieges, doves winning battles, bits of dead bodies as tokens of love, and whole series of real historical silly situations that no comedian could think of. Come along every other week for a compelling and insightful glimpse into A History of Italy. Language: en Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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199 – The dying gasp of the Fiorentine Republic and the first duke
Episode 199
Friday, 26 December, 2025
Episode SummaryWith Giovanni dalle Bande Nere gone, we return to Florence to witness the dramatic collapse of the centuries-old Florentine Republic and the emergence of Medici princely rule. Against the backdrop of the Sack of Rome, religious extremism, political infighting, and imperial intervention, this episode follows Florence’s final republican experiment and introduces one of its most controversial rulers: Alessandro de’ Medici, the first Duke of Florence.Key Topics CoveredThe Aftermath of the Sack of Rome (1527)Pope Clement VII’s humiliation after the Sack of Rome by mutinous imperial landsknechts and the blow to Medici prestige.The pope’s political failures, including his looming clash with Henry VIII and the broader collapse of Medici papal authority.Florence’s growing disillusionment with Medici “informal rule” and the sense that the moment for change had arrived.The Republican Revival in FlorenceEarly unrest during the passage of imperial troops and the damage to Michelangelo’s David.The fall of Cardinal Silvio Passerini’s authority after the Sack of Rome.The decisive confrontation involving Clarice de’ Medici and Filippo Strozzi that triggered the Medici flight from the city.The rise of a new republican government under Gonfalonier Niccolò Capponi.Factional divisions among the anti-Medici forces, from aristocratic moderates to radical, Savonarola-inspired religious extremists.The extraordinary moment when Jesus Christ was proclaimed King of Florence in February 1529.Siege, Resistance, and the End of the RepublicThe Treaty of Barcelona (1529) between Clement VII and Charles V, sealing Florence’s fate.The imperial siege of Florence and Michelangelo’s role—brief and reluctant—in strengthening the city’s defenses.Internal betrayal and wavering leadership under Malatesta Baglioni.Florentine defiance through ritual and sport: frozen-Arno games, Carnival football in Santa Croce, and cannon fire aimed at celebration.Capitulation in August 1530 after famine and plague, and Clement VII’s intervention to prevent a sack.The definitive death of the Florentine Republic.The Rise of Alessandro de’ MediciAlessandro’s appointment as Gonfalonier for life and later Duke of Florence, with authority imposed by imperial decree rather than civic choice.Competing theories about his parentage and his nickname il Moro.The...
