1. The Cradle of the Renaissance
Florence
The Cradle of the Renaissance

2. California Standard(s)
7.8-2: Explain the importance of Florence in the early stages of the Renaissance & the growth of independent trading cities, with emphasis on the cities’ importance in the spread of Renaissance ideas.

3. Florence is often called, “The Cradle of the Renaissance” because it was such an important city from the 1300’s to the 1600’s

4. Many great artists & thinkers called Florence their home
Leonardo da Vinci
Michelangelo
Dante

5. Florence was a City-State and was independent of any country

6. “Your parents elected me so I could do what is in their best interest”
Florence was a Republic (remember Rome?)
“Your parents elected me so I could do what is in their best interest”
Republic: A government where elected officials work for the interests of the people

7. A very important & powerful family ruled Florence-
The Medici family

8. The Medicis
The Medicis made their money through banking

9. They had so much wealth that they became Patrons of the arts
“Pay me my money!”

10. Florence attracted many people to come from all over Europe- some came to trade, some came to learn, some came to live!

11. Those that visited, went back home with new ideas and new knowledge and the ideas of the Renaissance spread in this way