Part IIISeptember 21, 2009

Yes….it continues…..he he he

Italy was not a united country, but a collection of independent City-States.

The Treaty of Lodi (1454-1455) brought Milan, Naples and Florence together against Venice and the Papal States

This maintained a balance of power

Around 1490, Milan saw a new ruler in Milanese il Moro.

He resumed hostilities when an alliance of Naples, Florence and the Papal States threatened him.

He then made a critical mistake….

He appealed to France for help.

France had dynastic claims to not only Naples, but to Milan as well.

France invaded and marched quickly through Italy.

This invasion struck fear not only into the hearts of Italians…but also into the heart of……

Spain!!!

Ferdinand of Aragon also had eyes on Italy. Now he was afraid of a France/Italy alliance.

He formed the League of Venice in 1495 with Spain, Venice, the Papal States and the Holy Roman Emperor.

The League managed to drive France out….

But not for long!!! Pope Alexander VI came to ally himself

with France, promoting French claims in Italy.

France and the Pope remained in alliance until his death.

Eventually France was able to reinvade twice more.

He was convinced that Italian political unity and independence were ends that justified any means

He advised Renaissance princes to practice artful deception and inspire fear if they wanted to be successful.