World History John Wheeler Nov. 29, 2010 The Renaissance World History John Wheeler Nov. 29, 2010
The Italian Renaissance Renaissance: Rebirth A “rebirth” of Greek and Roman civilization. Quickly spread throughout the rest of Europe from Italy.
3 Reasons for Renaissance: Society Sprouted in an Urban Society. Italian city states took a secular (worldly) outlook on the things. A new enjoyment in everything natural and manmade.
2nd Reason: Recovery from the Black Death Political instability Church decline Change and rebirth affected both politics and art. Economy!!
3rd Reason: New view of Humans and Sciences “Men can do all things, if they will.” - Leon Battista Alberti Being a universal person – study everything! Leonardo di Vinci: Painter, Sculptor, Architect, Inventor, Mathematician.
The Italian City States Many areas of Italy remained independent of each other: Milan, Venice, Florence were the main lands. Prospered from the Crusades…$$$ Trade!!
Milan Francesco Sforza conquered the city after the last Visconti ruler died. Led a group of mercenaries. Created efficient tax system.
Venice Elected official – called a doge. Trade was major!! Cool looking city…
Florence Florence was a major city state and used their force on others. Cosimo d’Medici was a major contributor to the arts. Lorenzo d’Medici also looked over culture. Savonarola accused Medici’s of corruption – overthrew them. Savonarola is sentenced to death after major uproar.
The Italian Wars Be careful what you wish for. French led an army into Northern Italy – attacked. Italy asked for help from Spain – agreed. Spanish weren’t paid and sacked Rome…
Niccolo Machiavelli “The Prince” How to acquire – and keep – political power. Power has nothing to do with being popular. Must be acting on the best of the state – not one’s self.
The Printing Press Johannes Gutenberg….first printed book: The Bible