The Medici Legacy: Banking Influence and Renaissance Culture in Florence

The Medici family, originating in 14th-century Florence, rose to power through banking and political influence. Giovanni di Bicci de Medici laid the foundation, while Cosimo de' Medici expanded their influence, becoming a key figure in the Renaissance. Lorenzo the Magnificent furthered their legacy in art and politics. Despite their decline due to Savonarola's rise, they regained power briefly. However, their influence waned, ending with Gian Gastone's death in 1737. The Medici's patronage of the arts and political maneuvering left a lasting impact on Florence and the Renaissance.

Who was the founder of the Medici family's financial success?

• Gian Gastone

• Cosimo de' Medici

• Giovanni di Bicci de Medici

• Lorenzo de' Medici

What was Cosimo de' Medici's role in Florence?

• Official ruler of Florence

• A famous artist

• Unofficial ruler of Florence

• A religious leader

Which artists were patronized by the Medici family under Cosimo's rule?

• Donatello and Caravaggio

• Michelangelo and Botticelli

• Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael

• Titian and Vermeer

What was Lorenzo de' Medici's nickname?

• Lorenzo the Brave

• Lorenzo the Wise

• Lorenzo the Magnificent

• Lorenzo the Great

How did Lorenzo de' Medici contribute to Florence's cultural scene?

• By building military fortresses

• By hosting festivals and gatherings for artists and scholars

• By expanding the city's borders

• By writing famous novels

What event marked the beginning of the Medici family's decline?

• The rise of Savonarola

• The death of Lorenzo de' Medici

• The sacking of Rome

• The birth of Giovanni de' Medici

Who was the Medici pope during the sacking of Rome?

• Pope Leo XVI

• Pope Clement VII

• Pope Urban II

• Pope Leo X

What was the fate of the Medici family after the sacking of Rome?

• Their influence suffered a severe blow

• They were permanently exiled

• They regained power immediately

• They became more powerful

Who was the last ruler of the Medici dynasty?

• Gian Gastone

• Lorenzo de' Medici

• Giovanni di Bicci de Medici

• Cosimo de' Medici

What is the lasting legacy of the Medici family?

• Their architectural achievements

• Their religious reforms

• Their patronage of the arts and influence in politics and finance

• Their military conquests